ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on a framework for writing exam essays, which use to develop a discussion of pretty much any subject. The exam essay differs from a coursework assignment both in terms of how it is written and marked. The opening paragraph should be decisive, internally coherent, and pithy. A tightly knit, well-marshaled argument never fails to impress in an exam essay, so don't allow yourself to get sidetracked. Clear signposts also help you to structure your essay, because they oblige you to be clear in your own mind about what each section of your discussion is doing, and how it relates to the argument as a whole. Simply by exploring the ideas set up in that first paragraph, the student in question will develop conceptual momentum which is why it behaves you to make sure your opening section deals in ideas and concepts, rather than inert information. Make sure to read through your work, checking that everything makes sense.
