Q.U.O.T.E. Strategy for Essay Exams

Q - Read the Question carefully and number or mark the different parts/sections of the question.

U - must do to answer the question correctly.

Define = give accurate meaning of term with details
Describe = who, what, where, when, why, how
Discuss = important characteristics and main points
Compare = show how ideas are similar, include examples
Contrast = show how ideas are different, include examples
Criticize = make judgments; positive or negative aspects
Explain = give facts and details that make the concept clear
Evaluate = discuss strengths, weaknesses, advantages, disadvantages
Illustrate = explain using examples
Justify = give reasons to support
Prove = demonstrate that a theory is valid, correct, logical
Trace = describe development or progress in chronological order
Summarize = cover major points in brief form

O - Outline your facts and ideas before writing. Often the point value of the question will determine how many facts and ideas you should include in your essay. Example: a 25-point essay question should include approximately 5 facts/ideas and examples.

T - Transcribe your outline into proper paragraph form: introduction, body, conclusion. Remember to write the essay question into your thesis statement.

E - Evaluate the content and organization of what you wrote.

Sample Questions to practice the Q.U.O.T.E. strategy:

1. Compare Irving and Bradford as historians.
2. Summarize and evaluate D.H. Lawrence's critique of Ben Franklin.
3. Criticize Wien's theory about the nature of pulsars.
4. Explain the function of endocrine glands and make a diagram showing the location of these glands.
5. Illustrate the relationship between the enlightenment and the scientific revolution.
6. Contrast the four types of conflicts and discuss how each type of conflict is resolved.

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