Boooster 79: How to Study for an Essay Test

For essay tests study concepts, relationships and organizational patterns (see Reading section).

An essay test will ask you to do something. Identify the behavioral term and do it. Here are some examples:

• Explain - Tell how and why.
• Describe - Tell what it looks like, sounds like and feels like. Use your senses.
• Compare - Tell the similarities.
• Contrast - Tell the differences.
• Trace - Go over, repeat or paraphrase a sequence of events or ideas (like tracing a picture).
• Discuss - Talk about. This one is so vague; if the instructor doesn't give more specific questions, ask for clarification.
• Illustrate - Give an example, or draw a picture.
• List - Make a list and number the items.
• Evaluate - Tell the value of. Is it good or bad? Did it do its job?

When the question asks for a list make a list, don't give an explanation. In short, answer the question that is asked.