1) Answer the question
This is probably something you’ve heard many times – because it’s true! Look at the question: identify
the key words and see how they can be interpreted. Do you agree with the wording of the question – or
disagree? Even better, are there aspects you agree with, and some you don’t?
It is most certainly worth spending a considerable amount of time deciphering the question (in an exam
situation at least 5 minutes) – it will save you time in the long run as you won’t have to stop half-way
through and reconsider your argument.
2) Signpost
Examiners are busy people, and terribly overworked come exam time. By the time they have waded through
hundreds of essays to read yours, it’s quite likely that they will be tired and won’t spend too long
trying to decipher your argument if you fail to state it clearly. In order to make their job easier (and
get a better mark – a win-win situation!), the best thing to do is tell them exactly what your essay
will do, and in what order:
- Use the introductory paragraph to spell out your argument.
- Tell the reader what aspect of the question you’ll address first, second, and so forth. It may sound
unnecessary to you, but it’s crucial in convincing the examiner that you know exactly what you’re
doing.
3) The last sentence in your paragraph is key
Use the last sentence of each paragraph to summarise your point and refer it back to the question – a
great way to make sure that you don’t steer too far from the essay question.
Further Resources
Essay Writing
Tutors
Additional resources:
Writing an
Essay Under Exam Conditions
Essay Structure
How to Get an
A* Instead of an A in Your Essays
