Taking a College Essay Test: Writing the Answer

So you know how to prepare for a college essay test and how to get your outline, but what about actually writing your answer? Yes, while your professor may have been extremely impressed in your ability to get to class in a reasonable fashion and make an outline, he or she will probably want you to answer something eventually. Whether you view this as fair or another example of collegiate imperialism you don't really have much of a choice, you will have to write an answer sooner or later. Here are a few tips to help the process.

1. PREWRITE! This may seem silly if you are on a timed system and writing...well..before you write, but there is a good reason, it makes you seem like you know what you are talking about! If you pre-write, take notes, brainstorm, then you are more likely to have a coherent and rational argument than if you didn't. A little thought on paper goes a long, long way and those who do this will make a lot better grades than those who don't. It doesn't have to be long, just a few notes here and there to get your argument all together.

2. Write, my good man, write! Once you have everything out of your head and on to paper in some notes then waste no time in writing it out. When you initially write out your argument don't worry about grammar other than attempting to write in the most coherent, grammatically correct way you can without ruining the flow from your brain. Focus on getting down everything you want to say as you go through this answer and don't worry about the peripherals.

3. Revise and edit your paper to the best of your ability or the best that time allows. Correct the big mistakes first because even and English Professor can or will excuse a comma splice every now and then, but nobody will excuse misspelling Shakespeare. Read through your text to make sure you understand it just the way you did when you were originally writing it. If you are satisfied with the way it flows, turn that sucker in and go home!