1. THE EXAM
There are 20 questions (1 on each seminar topic) and no sections
There are some option exclusions
You must answer 3 questions in 3 hours (or 2 in 2 hours if Joint Honours/History & Culture and have submitted a long essay)
Scripts (and long essays) are double-marked by a random selection of early modern tutors

2. REVISION DO Select 5 or 6 topics to revise thoroughly
Choose topics that are interlinked
Dissect short essays and read around them
Look through past papers
DON’T
Rely on just knowing 3 topics
Forget to think about links between topics
Just read through short essays
Ignore different angles

3. EXAM TECHNIQUE DO ANSWER THE QUESTION
Structure your answer – intro & conclusion
Provide supporting evidence – historians’ views, examples
Argue a focused but balanced case
Give each answer sufficient time
DON’T
Rattle off all you know or regurgitate
Lose sight of the question
Be vague
Fail to include evidence
Argue as if there’s only one point of view
Be irrelevant or range out of period
Leave too little time for the last question

4. OTHER TIPS
Demonstrate breadth of knowledge (of module themes or different countries)
If asked to address a particular aspect don’t spend too long on other aspects unless they link directly to the question
Check your facts – dates, rulers etc
Markers are impressed by range and specificity (also check Marking Criteria)
Markers prefer legible scripts!

5. First Class (70+)
1. Persuasive and direct answer to the question, establishing the wider significance of the issues concerned.
2. Comprehensive coverage of the relevant material; accuracy in the details.
3. A direct and coherent argument, well supported by relevant evidence.
4. Critical analysis of relevant concepts, theoretical or historiographical
perspectives or methodological issues.
5. Fluent and engaging writing style; persuasive presentation and structuring of arguments.
6. Work which, in addition, displays evidence of creativity, originality,
sophistication and freshness of arguments will be awarded marks of 75+
Upper Second (60 – 69)
1. Direct answer to the question, establishing the wider significance of the
issues concerned.
2. Adequate coverage of the relevant material, accuracy in the details.
3. Skilful mobilisation of evidence in relation to the argument being presented.
4. Narrative and description taking second place to analysis.
5. Competent manipulation of relevant concepts, theoretical or
historiographical perspectives or methodological issues.
6. Fluent writing style; effective presentation and structuring of arguments.

6. EUROPEAN WORLD ROUNDUP SESSION
TUESDAY 13 MAY
12-2 p.m.
PHYSICS LECTURE THEATRE