Writing Instruction Tutorial

Essays

Essay Exams

Taking essay exams is a major part of every student’s college education.  Doing well on the exams is the problem.  There are several inherent difficulties:

Pulling together ideas quickly
Writing under a time constraint
Writing well under a time constraint
Reviewing and correcting an essay

Despite these difficulties, students must learn strategies for handling essay exams.  Several tips for taking essay exams are as follows:

1.   Note the amount of time you are allotted for the exam, and if there is more than one essay, distribute your time equally.  Do not put “all your eggs in one basket.”  Allow 5-10 minutes on the back end to review your answers.

2.   Read over all the questions carefully first, then decide, if given a choice, on the question to answer.  Make sure you answer all parts to the question.

3.   Underline key words in the question, such as “define,” “argue,” “analyze,” “illustrate,” “explain,” “justify,” “support,” among others.  These words are clues about the way to approach your essay.

4.   Do a mini-outline that lists several major points you want to make in the essay by taking a few minutes to plan your answer.  If there is time, add in a select few examples and specific details.

5.   Restate the question in some form in your introduction to focus your essay.

6.   Develop your ideas as in any essay.  Back them up with specific details and examples to support them, and fully address all parts of the question asked.

7.   Paragraphs need to be fully developed and each body paragraph should focus on one central idea.  As in any essay, you need an introduction, body, and conclusion.

8.   A conclusion paragraph should emphasize and restate your main point and finish off the question.

9.   Reread the question to make sure you have answered it adequately.

10. Reread your essay and pay attention to the writing.  Correct any glaring omissions by inserting missing words or a sentence or two and fix any proofreading errors.

Time may be your friend or enemy, depending on how prepared you are and how effectively you plan your work.  If you know the material, you have eliminated one problem, and you are better able to focus on writing to convey your knowledge. 

Resources

UNC Writing Center Handout | Essay Exams

Exam Preparation: Preparing for Essay Style Exams

Study Guides and Strategies

Colgate University Writing Center: Handouts

The UVic Writer's Guide: Writing Exam Essays

George Mason University Writing Center

ASU Writing Center - Online Handouts - Essay Exams

Princeton Writing Center