Answering Essay Questions

A. As soon as you get the exam, use the back of the question sheet (or a sheet of scratch paper) to write down facts and details that you have memorized, but are afraid you might forget. Only spend a minute or two on this.

B. Before answering any questions, read the directions thoroughly and carefully to be sure you understand exactly what is being asked. If the directions are not clear, ask the instructor or test proctor for clarification.

C. Read all of the questions before answering any. As you read each question, write down any relevant ideas that occur to you. Also, circle any key words (e.g., "define", "compare", "explain", "contrast") in the question that tell you what kind of answer is wanted.

D. If you have a choice of questions to answer, answer the questions that you are most prepared for.

E. After seeing how many questions you need to answer, quickly plan how much time you will spend on each question. Budget your time.

F. If all questions are worth about the same number of points, begin with the easiest question (to help build confidence).

G. If some questions are worth much more than others, begin with the questions that are worth the most points. (If possible, begin with the easiest question that is worth the most points).

H. Answer the essay question directly in your first sentence. You can help yourself stay focused by using a partial repeat of the question (e.g., if asked "What was the significance of the Gulf War," you might write "The significance of the Gulf War was.....").

I. Next, fill in the details, facts and ideas necessary to support your first sentence. Use transitional phrases to begin each paragraph, such as "First....," "Second...."

J. Put your best ideas in the first few lines or paragraphs of your answer. Do not save these for a "big finish" because you may run out of time, or forget to work these in to your answer.

K. End your essay with one or two sentences that summarize the main points.

L. Leave a wide space (or a blank page, if possible) between answers in case you remember things later that you want to include in an earlier answer.

M. Leave wide margins on each side for your instructor's comments.

N. Keep track of the time. Do not spend too much time on any one question. If you find you do not have enough time to write a full essay, at least write an outline of your main points to show what you did know.

Adapted from: Pauk, W. (1984). How to study in college, (3rd ed.). Boston: Houghton-Mifflin.(pp. 292-303)