Essay and Exam Tips

Unless the nature of being a student has changed dramatically I am going to assume that the average* student still wishes to achieve the maximum results with the least amount of effort, This is not being lazy. This is a sensible and efficient approach.

So how do you go about it? I would suggest the following approaches. Please remember, these worked for me. They will probably do the same for you but as we are all different and think and learn in our own unique fashion you should modify these to suit yourself. I know this will horrify some but you really have to think for yourself.

You might begin by having a look at the pages on study and exam techniques. In addition to reading and using the information on these pages you might start working with a partner, a study buddy. Being able to explain a topic, generally means that you understand it. A study buddy should also be able to explain a topic in language you understand and with the necessary patience.

You need to study smartly. Highlighting the complete text does not help. So, what should you look at? Start with the exam questions. You will see that climate change and global warming are questions that come up on a regular basis. Really worth studying.

Before you start work on your answer, check out the marking schemes to see what exactly is required. It would be safer to give the examiner more than is required e.g. if a question requires 6 Significant Relevant Points (SRP's) give 8 SRP's. Not all examiners are the same and you should take no chances.

Next work your way through the various pages and follow the links. In this way any answer you develop will be unique to you. If you stick to the textbooks or copy a 'model' answer you are in danger of boring the examiner or being compared unfavourably to other students.

Try to keep your answer topical or up to date. You only need to do this a few times in an answer. Have a look at the news for ideas and make sure you follow the news links on these pages.

Whatever anyone tells you it is never too late to start. However, if you are reading this for the first time in May and you have not yet started your studies, ignore that sentence. The earlier you start and the quicker you develop good study habits the better.

Try not to get sidetracked by the internet. Use the links carefully and remember that you are trying to get information to help you pass exams.

* Obviously, the fact that you found and used the SEI website and then worked your to these pages indicates that the word average in no way applies to you. It is also possible that academically you are superior in many different ways.