• Essay questions involve major themes and how the facts relate to them. Therefore, it is essential to understand main ideas and supporting details.
• One excellent tool in preparing for an essay test is to use a previously written outline, mind map, or combo notes and recall questions of the main ideas and supporting details from texts and class discussions. Recall questions may even be the test questions.
• Essay tests require an answer of at least one paragraph in length. A student will usually be required to focus upon the main points and general concepts more than on details. However, details must be included in the essay to back up, illustrate, or prove the main points.
• When taking an essay test:
o Read all directions and questions carefully.
o Decide how much time you will spend on each essay.
o Begin with the essay easiest for you. It will allow you to relax, gain confidence and recall facts.
o Jot pertinent ideas in the margins that you want to use in your essay. Number ideas in the order you plan to use them.
o Begin each answer by restating the question as your lead sentence.
o Use the information you wrote in the margins to write main ideas first. Then, fill in supporting details; such as facts, names, etc.
o Leave space between answers to go back and add information.
o Reread. Did you answer the question?
o Answer all questions. Write all you are sure of for partial credit.
o Be specific; use relevant facts.
o Proofread for grammar, punctuation, spelling, and NEATNESS (it does count).
o Remember, concise, well-organized answers are favored by teachers, which translate into better grades for you!
The following terms are usually included in the directions for essays.
Questions that include these words require you to write all the relevant information you know:
* Describe * Discuss * Explain * List * Outline * Prove * Review * State
Questions that include these words require you to write specific facts in a specific way:
• Compare – Write about the likenesses of the subjects.
• Contrast – Write about the differences only between the subjects.
• Compare and Contrast – Write about the likenesses and differences of the subjects.
• Define – Write the meaning of the word or subject given.
• Illustrate – Give examples that would explain and almost draw a picture about the topic.
• Diagram – You do not need to write, rather draw and label charts, tables, timelines, etc.
Questions that include these words require you to write your opinion backed up by facts:
* Criticize * Evaluate * Interpret * Justify
Carol Wood is the Founder & CEO of Total Learning Concepts, Inc. Visit www.totallearningconcepts.com for information about their tutorial and test preparation services. For more information about Total Learning Concepts, Inc., please call 770-381-5958 or visit their website at http://totallearningconcepts.com
