An Essay Exam Survival Guide
Memorize outlines, not entire essays.
When your instructor shares the essay topic(s) before the exam, it can be tempting to memorize an entire answer in advance. However, if you have a tight schedule during exam season, this strategy may not be the best use of your time! Try memorizing only the basics: the main points that support your argument and the information that proves those points (in other words: an essay outline). This approach not only saves time but also allows for greater flexibility if the adrenaline rush of the exam provides you with new ideas!