ABSTRACT

The examination essay is a genre in itself. Most examinations require one to write several essays in quite a short period of time. The three most important principles of good examination essay technique are: answer the question set, make a case, and omit unnecessary words. The best preparation for writing under examination essays is writing practice plans and practice essays under examination conditions. Most students only devote a tiny fraction of their revision time to practising essay plans and essay writing, but ultimately their final grades will depend on whether they can write essays under these challenging conditions. Most people find exams stressful. One of the best ways to minimise the effect of exam nerves and to stop them spiralling out of control is to be well prepared.