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find it very difficult to recover when you are under the pressure of completing the exam.

So, what constitutes a good answer to a question on an essay exam? First and foremost you need to write a coherent essay. Lists and bullet points do not constitute an essay, much less a coherent one. You need to provide detail. You need to answer every part of the question. You need to demonstrate that you understand the concepts in question. Do not assume that your reader already knows the material. The exam is designed to see whether you know the material so you need to be able to explain it in a way that illustrates your understanding of the concepts. This means it is not enough for you to merely mention a technical term you have to explain it.

Now, having established that it is important to understand as opposed to memorize how can you insure that you really do understand the concepts over which you will be tested? Here's an easy test. Try explaining it to someone else. Pick a friend or family member who doesn't know about philosophy and tell them that you are going to try to explain a philosophical concept or theory to them. Be sure to ask them to be honest about whether they understand it or not. They shouldn't just tell you they do to be nice. You want to be able to explain it in a way that they can understand it. If you can do this, you understand it yourself. If they ask you questions, you should be able to answer them. If you cannot, then you do not understand the philosophical concept you're trying to explain. So, you need to ask me some questions!

OK, so what happens if you don't understand a certain theory or concept? How can you improve your ability to understand the material in general? The first step is to allow yourself time to think about these concepts. This is one of the major reasons I suggest that you learn these concepts as we go through them in class and not put things off until just before the exam. many classes involve material that you have to think about and give yourself time to let the material sink in. The next step is to engage in active learning.

In particular I want to draw your attention to a couple more things in closing. First, understanding means making new ideas and concepts your own. Look for ways to connect the subject you're learning to things you already know. Making these connections is a great way to improve your learning and it also shows you how you can use and benefit from what you learn. Once you can do this, your learning will be easier and more enjoyable. Secondly, discuss these concepts with your classmates. The best way to learn any subject (and the most fun way) is to talk about it with others. Of course, you can also talk about what you are learning with friends and family.

Learn more about this author, Kevin J. Browne.
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