Answering Essay type questions

Very few students like answering essay type. questions. In a survey conducted by the University of California, Berkley, essay questions came last on the student questions type preference list. Given the detailed description on any topic covers, and its accuracy thoroughly depends on the knowledge of the exam taker, it is perfectly understandable that few students would be happy sitting for questions in essay form. However, it’s not the knowledge which needs to be delivered as part of the answer of test question, words used to frame the right answers to the questions themselves are challenging. If the words that were written are not understood can make provide the wrong answer or an answer that falls short of the credits allocated to the question. Therefore, this article is exclusively dedicated to helping you understand the various terminologies examiners use when setting essay questions.

However, before we get to that, let’s talk about a key psychological aspect that determines whether or not you pass an exam. Although it’s rarely mentioned, your attitude has serious implications on your success in any exam and your academic performance in general. With the right attitude and legible handwriting, you’ll view exams as an opportunity to succeed rather than an opportunity to fail.

Below are few points that you should answer questions in which they’ve been used.

  • ANALYZE – These questions require a detailed explanation. When and if necessary include when, where, why, and how in your answer. Ensure you tackle both the pros and cons where necessary.
  • COMPARE - These questions require you to lay emphasis on the similarities between two subjects
  • CONTRAST – Explore the differences
  • DEFINE – State the meaning of the subject and characteristics, traits or qualities
  • DESCRIBE – Include characteristics and traits and be more detailed
  • DISCUSS - These questions often require the most comprehensive answer. When answering them state the important characteristics, the advantages and disadvantages, research that has been done on the subject, and the significance of the findings. However, ensure you establish a viewpoint that you defend throughout your argument
  • EVALUATE – state both the positive and negative aspects of the subject. Incorporate your opinion and defend it with evidence. Use examples that are relevant to the subject.
  • EXPLAIN – Offer insights into the subject. If it’s a phenomenon, tell why and how it takes place.
  • INTERPRET – Offer your understanding of the subject. You may need to simplify, condense, translate, or paraphrase as you answer the question.
  • JUSTIFY – These questions primarily require you to provide the evidence for something. Such evidence may include research or quotes.
  • LIST – These are some of the least demanding essay questions. Often you only need to record the answers in chronological order.
  • OUTLINE - Present your answer in terms of major points followed by clarifying details or facts. No elaboration is usually necessary. However, the examiners sometimes require that you provide a brief explanation. Often, not more than a sentence.
  • PROVE - Include factual evidence, research, logic, and/or scientific proof that substantiates a case, a specific position, or a set of hypotheses.
  • RELATE – Identify the connections between the two stated ideas.
  • SUMMARIZE - Outline the major concepts, ideas and consequences in a short sentence or paragraph.

Once you’ve mastered these concepts, handling essay questions will be easier. However, knowledge of these concepts won’t be helpful if you have zero content mastery.