Guidelines for Answering Free Response Questions

Underline key words/phrases in the question itself.  Circle specific requirements of the question.

Jot down key terms/people/examples/etc. that will be a part of your response.  Be quick.  Make a thumbnail outline.

Answer the question in the order it is asked.  If the question is organized, A, B, C you must answer it A, B, C.

A formal introduction is NOT needed, launch right into your answer.


Be specific.  Avoid vague statements.  Do NOT assume the reader is an expert in the topic.

Do NOT give your opinion, unless it is asked for.  State the obvious.  Be concise.

A formal conclusion is NOT needed.


Answer each section of the question COMPLETELY.  When you have answered a part of the question (now underlined or circled), cross it off.