The following are suggestions you would pass on to your students regarding essay-style tests. Tell them, "Before beginning to answer you questions...":

1. Check to make sure you have all the question pages.
2. Check the back of the question pages to see if there are questions there.
3. Read all test or examination instructions and questions.
4. In the instructions, underline or circle all key words or phrases such as and, or, answer three of the following. . . .
5. Within each question underline or circle all key words or phrases such as "discuss", "list", "explain", "compare", "three causes of". . . .
6. Note the numerical value of each question and the total time allowed for the test or examination. Then convert the numerical value to the appropriate number of minutes per question. Remember to deductfive minutes for preparation and at least ten minutes for reading, correcting and revising the test or examination paper. The proof-reading and revision will be made easier if questions are answered on every other line.
7. Note which question or sections are compulsory, optional or allow for choice.
8. Make certain you know the number of questions you are required to answer.
9. Choose the question you wish to do first. The quesiton you answer first should be the one with which you fell most confident. Spend only the appropriate amount of time, or less, on this question. The order in which you answer the questions need not be the order in which you finally arrange your answers before you hand in your paper.
   

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   While answering Your Questions:
10. For each question, jot down on a separate piece of paper (rough work), the key ideas or facts pertaining to that question.
11. Take into account the marks allotted for each question or sub-questions, and decide how much emphasis should be placed on each idea or fact. If a question asks for three concepts or facts, and the total number of marks is twelve, assume that each fact or concept should be developed and that marks may also be assigned for organization and style.
12. Decide which ideas or facts to include in you r answer, based on what is required in the question. For example, if the question asks for three facts or concepts, choose from your list of key ideas or facts the three most important facts which you can expand upon.
13. Decide on the format of the answer. Will you discuss each concept in a paragraph of its own, or will you compare concepts within a paragraph?
14. Compose the introduction of your answer so that it includes the key words or phrases in the question. The introduction should also indicate the direction the answer will take and suggest, but not state, the conclusion you hope to reach.
15. Develop the body of your essay so that it includes the points you have chosen to present. Make sure you write your answer in the format you have chosen. Stay with this format throughout your answer.
16. Compose a final paragraph in which the conclusion that you suggested in the introductory paragraph is now clearly stated.
17. Leave space at the end of each answer. This space will allow you to add further information if you recall something important and you have time at the end of the test or examination.
18. Go immediately to the next question of your choice. Start each answer on a new page.

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    After Answering All Your Questions:
19. When you have completed all the answers, oganize them in your preferred order or in the order required by the instructions of the test or examination.
20. Make certain you have answered the required number of questions. Number each page and arrange all pages in order.
21. Read all your answers carefully and correct or revise where necessary.
22. Identify your paper as instruced, including subject, your full name, the teacher's name and your grade or class.