Essay-based exams: A short guide

• Create a glossary.
  • In the run-up to your exam, it might help to create a list of the important words and phrases you need to know for each module, grouped together in different themes. Write a concise definition next to each term. Go back to your glossary regularly and test yourself.

• Read as much as you can during your course! 
  • It’s better to study regularly throughout the year than cram just before the exam. Go through your set texts thoroughly and make sure you understand them as well as you can. Keep your notes in order and make sure you record all references correctly, to make it easier when you do come to revise.

• ​Practice writing essays to time.
  • Get used to how much time you will be able to spend planning, writing and proofreading your work in an exam. Utilise past papers if you can, to get an idea of the types of questions that often come up. But try not to memorise an answer to an essay question as you risk becoming panicked if that particular question doesn’t appear on the day. Instead, make sure you fully understand all your course material so that you can be flexible and confident.

University of Birmingham. Academic Skills Centre. (2015) Short guide to understanding your assignments (Accessed:13 May 2023)

University of Birmingham. Academic Skills Centre. (2015) Short guide to multiple choice and short answer exams. (Accessed: 13 May 2023)