Essay exams

Read the question

Some exams might ask you to write three essays in two or three hours.

Show clearly which question you are answering.

Read each of your chosen questions in close detail.

Look for their principal topic(s), key terms, and instruction terms.

Think carefully about what the main issue requires.

Check for either - or options and the number of examples required.

Make a plan

Write a brief plan or a list of topics on the left-hand page of the exam booklet.

This shows the examiner what you are going to write about

You can change the plan or make additions whilst you are writing.

If you don't complete your answer, the plan might even gain you some marks.

Use the page

Write your answers on the right-hand pages of the booklet.

Leave the left-hand pages blank - unless this is prohibited.

These blank pages can be used for extra writing or changes you might want to make later.

Write as clearly as possible, and avoid untidiness.

If you make mistakes, correct them neatly.

Making changes

If you wander off the point, cross out the whole paragraph.

Do this as neatly as possible: don't scrawl or scribble.

If you want to add some more ideas later, write them on the left-hand page.

Draw an arrow to show where the extra material belongs.

Quality

Write concisely. Don't waffle or wander off the point .

Produce as many separate ideas or points of argument as possible. You will get marks for each one.

Try to give your answers a clear and logical shape..

Avoid any impression of sloppiness or uncertainty.

Finishing

When you have finished answering the questions, always check your work.

Even if there is time to spare, don't leave the exam room.

Correct any factual errors and slips in punctuation or grammar.

Every mark counts!