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268 CHAPTER 11Organize Your Response by Making an Outline or Representation (Map)
Identify main ideas and supporting details or examples. When you
begin writing, you can organize your essay by paragraphs, each with
one main idea and several details or examples. This format makes it
easy for the grader to follow your response.Write Your Answer Following Specific Procedures- Begin with an introductory paragraph that defines terms or
describes how you will respond to the question. - After the introductory paragraph, state your first main idea and
back it up with supporting details (i.e., facts, dates, and exam-
ples). Go to the next main idea and do the same. Use the ideas,
facts, and theories discussed in the course in your response to
questions and be sure to support your arguments or point of
view with factual information. - Add transitional words such as first, second, third, moreover,
in addition, also, however, finally, therefore, on the other hand,
nevertheless. - Add a summary.
- Proofread and revise your answer.
If Given an Opportunity, Review Your Exam Results
It is important that you analyze test errors, often called an error
analysis, to improve future test performance. The answer to the fol-
lowing questions will help in your analysis: Why were points deducted
from my answer? Did I answer all parts of the question? Can I eas-
ily identify my main ideas? Did I omit examples or supporting details?
How well did I answer lower and higher level questions? What were
the sources of my errors (e.g., lecture notes, textbooks, or handouts)?
How will I adjust my study plan for the next exam? What study
strategies were the most and least effective?
The student reporting the following experience indicates that ana-
lyzing test results can be beneficial.Student Reflections
A couple of weeks ago I took a history exam. I used a number of new
study strategies and went into the exam with the confidence that I
was going to do well. I had studied hard and thought I knew all the
important information to be covered. In fact, I came out of the exam
with a smile on my face, thinking I had done a good job.
When I got the test back, I scored much lower than I expected and
was very upset and disappointed. I went back to my dorm and
complained to my roommate. He suggested that I speak to the