Tips for Students on Writing Essay Exams:

  1. READ the question carefully. This may sound elementary, but make sure that you read ALL parts of the question and that you respond accordingly.
  2. Jot down a brief OUTLINE. Note the main ideas and examples you will use in your essay.
  3. PACE yourself. Keep an eye on the clock and allow yourself time to complete all parts of your outline.
  4. Start with a brief INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH which explains your position or the focus of your essay.
  5. In the body of the essay, be sure to use EXAMPLES to justify your comments and support your claims. However, do NOT give plot summaries. You may assume that the instructor has read the texts and knows which examples you are using with only a brief description.
  6. Through your use of examples, demonstrate your FAMILIARITY with the text. RELATE your examples to the ideas your intend for those examples to support.
  7. In general, clearly describe ONE MAIN IDEA in each paragraph.
  8. Be sure that there is a logical, STATED CONNECTION between paragraphs and ideas. It is a good idea, if possible, to refer to point(s) made in the previous paragraphs and connect to the next idea. These transitions will give your essay a logical flow.
  9. Be sure that your examples and ideas lead to some kind of CONCLUSION. This does not refer to an "ending" to your essay, but some logical inferences which can be made based on you examples. Remember, COMPARISON is the key!
  10. In the final paragraph, SUMMARIZE the points you have made.