1. Test Taking Skills Essay Tests Developed and Designed by Birma Gainor

2. Advice Outline Predict Questions from your Notes Practice Plan your Approach to Answering Test Questions Quick Tips

3. Predict Questions from your Notes Short Answer Questions If your notes list a group of people or things, the most likely way to ask about them would be short answer Short answer questions usually include: list, name, define, or identify

4. Predict Questions (cont’) Trace Questions If your notes show the steps in a process of listing and developing, you are looking at a trace question Some key words or phrases: Describe the steps in…, Outline the history of…, Trace the development of…

5. Predict Questions (cont’) Compare and Contrast Questions If your notes describe two or more things that have some similar features and some different features, you are looking at compare and contrast Some key words or phrases: Compare and contrast…, Show the similarities and differences…, Tell how (these) two things are alike and different…, Weigh the advantages and disadvantages between…

6. Predict Questions (cont’) Discussion Questions If your notes describe the effects of one thing on another, or the significance of a particular event, individual, or institution, predict a discussion question These questions often begin with Discuss the role of…, Discuss the significance of…, Discuss the effect of…

7. Practice Practice writing answers on the questions your predict. Using your notes, write out some answers based on what questions your notes might generate.

8. Plan Your Approach Plan your approach to the actual test questions. Note points assigned to each question and allot time accordingly. Don’t spend a lot of time on questions worth few points! If you have a problem with a question, skip it and save for later if possible Make brief, concise notes for each essay question

9. Quick Tips Examine the question Choose a title Outline or map your response before you write Have a beginning, middle, and end

10. Quick Tips (cont’) Use transitional words If you run out of time, outline the remaining questions Proofread your answers If a question confuses you, write any thoughts you have about the topic on the back of your paper

11. Questions? Please talk to one of the staff members if you have more concerns or if you would like assistance.