Strategies for Essay Questions

Remember, the objective is to demonstrate how well you can explain and support an idea, not just what you know.

Keep the following in mind:

  1. Read all the question before you start to write. Underline key words like define, compare, explain, persuade, etc...
  2. Think before you write. Remember, a good answer starts with a direct response to the question, mentions the topics or areas described in the question, and provides specific as well as geeneral information.
  3. Map or outline the main points you want to make, determine the order in which you want to write your points, determine the support you want to add, and then write.
  4. Write legibly.
  5. Proofread yourr essay. Check for grammar, punctuation, and spelling.

Key Terms for Essays

Analyze: Break into separate parts and discuss, examine, or interpret each part. Explain: Make an idea clear. Show logically how a concept is developed. Give reasons for an event. Compare: Examine two or more things.Identify similarities and differences.
Illustrate: Give concrete examples. Explain clearly by using comparisons or examples. Contrast: Show differences. Set in opposition. Interpret: Comment upon, give examples, describe relationships. Explain the meaning. Describe, then evaluate.
Criticize: Make judgements. Evaluate comparative worth.Criticism often involves analysis. Outline: Describe ideas, characteristics, or events. (Does not necessarily mean "write a Roman numeral/letter outline.") Define: Give the meaning; usually a meaning specific to the course or subject. Determine the precise limits of the term to be defined.Explain the exact meaning. Definitions are usually short..
Prove: Support with facts (especially facts presented in class or in the test.) Describe: Give a detailed account. Make a picture with words. List characteristics, qualities, and parts. State: Explain precisely.
Discuss: Consider and debate or argue the pros and cons of an issue. Compare and contrast. Summarize: Give a brief, condensed account.Include conclusions. Avoid unecessary details. Enumerate: List several ideas, aspects, events, things, qualities, reasons, etc...
Trace: Show the order or progress of a subject or event. Evaluate: Give your opinion or cite the opinion of an expert. Include evidence to support the evaluation. Relate: Show the connection between ideas or events. Provide a larger context.

 

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