Essay Exams-Quick Tips
- Use an erasable pen - Remember, neatness does count!
Make sure you have an introductory paragraph
- Outline the answer before writing your essay - Use the inside cover of the blue book and write down the information you know and then number it in the order of writing your essay.
- In this paragraph you want to make sure that you explain the point of your essay answer (i.e., your thesis statement).
- Write a concluding paragraph to summarize your essay - This reinforces the points you made within the essay. It should be somewhat similar to your introductory paragraph.
- Use your strongest point first in your essay answer - This is to grab the reader’s attention immediately.
- Underline the key words in your essay question/statement - By doing this you will be able to look back quickly to see if you are answering the question.
Helpful Terms To Know
ANALYZE - Break into separate parts and discuss or interpret.
COMPARE - Examine qualities or characteristics in order to discover resemblances. This usually refers to similarities more than differences.
CONTRAST - Show differences between two or more ideas, topics, concepts, etc.
CRITICIZE - Make judgments as to a given topic or evaluate its worth by backing up your statement with specific examples.
DEFINE - Give a clear, specific meaning.
DESCRIBE - Give a detailed account. Include characteristics and qualities.
DIAGRAM - Present a chart, plan, or graphic representation.
DISCUSS - Examine an issue and present or argue its pros and cons with details and examples.
ENUMERATE - List several ideas, aspects, events, reasons, etc.
EVALUATE - Give your opinion or the opinion of an expert. Include both advantages and limitations.
EXPLAIN - Clarify and interpret material presented, state “who,” what,” “where,” and “why.”
ILLUSTRATE - Give concrete examples.
INTERPRET - Comment upon, give examples, and describe relationships.
JUSTIFY - Give reasons or prove.
LIST - Present an itemized series.
OUTLINE - Give main points and necessary supplementary material, omitting details.
PROVE - Support with facts or evidence.
RELATE - Show how things interconnect.
STATE - Explain precisely.
SUMMARIZE - Give the main points or facts in condensed form.
SUPPORT - Back up statements with facts and proof.
TRACE - Show the order or progress of events.
This list was excerpted from Newbury College's Academic Support Services.