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Section 6 – Study Skills
True-False
If there is anything at all about a true-false statement that is vaguely false,
the correct response is false. Also, if the statement doesn’t say it, it is false. If
it is not there, it can’t be true. Be on the look out for qualifiers such as
sometimes, never, rarely, always or almost always!
Short Answer
When an answer requires a brief response, keep it brief. In this case less is
more, don’t dig yourself into a hole by providing too much information that
could be erroneous.
If asked to provide definitions of words, consider studying using flashcards
and mnemonic devices to help you remember definitions.
Open Book
This type of exam can be tricky if you are not well prepared. First, invest in
some color coded tabs or post it notes and clearly mark each section or
chapter so you can quickly find information you need. Next, make sure to
go through the book and
HIGHLIGHT
key topics that can easily catch your
eye as you are flipping through the book on exam day. Finally, write notes in
the margin of the book. You will not have time to consult both the book
and your notes, so combine the two sources of information and be speedy
on exam day.
Essay Exams
An essay exam is one of the most effective ways for a teacher to decipher how well a
student knows the subject matter.
When preparing to take an essay exam, make sure to have a working knowledge of the
required material. You will likely need to remember specific details about the subject
matter to be able to support your claims. So make sure to study well in advance. Do not
attempt to “cram” the night before.
Most essay questions will ask you to analyze, compare, contrast, critique, defend,
evaluate, examine, explain, illustrate, or interpret a specific topic.
F
irst, read the prompt and underline what you are asked to write about. You
will form your thesis statement based on the writing prompt.
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