ESSAY TESTS:Dos and don’ts

A Typical Essay Test:2 essay questions. Answer 1 of 2 (average

length: 2-3 pages in a small blue book). Please write on only one side of the page! Write the number of the essay you have chosen (1 or 2) on the cover of your Blue Book.

Typical Format of the Questions: 1. Explain Philosopher X’s theory of yyy . How can

the film XXX be said to illustrate her theory?2. Define the theory of zzz, give an example of the

theory, and identify at least two problems associated with the theory.

Suggested approach:Read the questions carefully and select one.Do a brainstorm: jot down words and ideas

associated with the question.Put your brainstorm into a structured outline

(such as: intro, 1st step, 2nd step, conclusion)Write directly into your Blue Book.When finished, proofread your essay and

correct minor errors!

Pitfalls to avoid:Don’t switch topics halfway through the test!

Don’t try to duplicate the formal language of a philosophy text—write in your own words.

Don’t leave without having read your essay and corrected errors.

FAQsQ: Will I be graded for spelling and grammar

errors?A: Only if the errors indicate that you have

misunderstood the content.Q: Will I be graded for having made a mess of the

paper?A: Only if you haven’t made your intention

absolutely clear to the reader!Q: What if I’ve forgotten to write something, and

I’m done with the paper?A: Put an number or a star symbol where the text

should go, and write the missing information at the end of your Blue Book, with the similar number or star symbol.

MORE FAQsQ: What if I make a mistake, or change my mind about

something I’ve written?A: Put a line through it, and write your correction in the

margin, above the error, or at the end of the paper (with a number or a star symbol, as in the previous answer).

Q: What if everything I can think of writing is stuff the instructor already knows—should I bother writing it?

A: Absolutely. Your instructor doesn’t know that you know the material—you have to prove it to her by writing about it, in detail!

Q: What if I can think of writing more than the test actually asks for—is that okay?

A: Absolutely, as long as it is relevant. It shows independent thinking.

Q: Is it okay to add my opinion, even if it isn’t asked for?A: Yes, as long as you address the issues from the prompt

first.

WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU’RE DONEMake certain your name is on your essay

(and scantron, if applicable)

Make certain you have answered all the questions

Turn your essay (and scantron, if applicable) and the test in to your instructor

Then you may leave quietly!