Lecture: Exam Answer Writing Tips by Manish Verma

Introduction

• Misconception: Teachers don’t mark line by line.
  • Reality: Only the first question is checked rigorously, setting the impression for the rest of the answers.
• Goal: How to write answers effectively to maximize marks in BA and MA exams.

Key Points in Answer Writing

• Introduction: Brief explanation of the topic (3-4 lines).
• Body: Detailed explanation using subheadings, flow charts, maps, and diagrams.
• Conclusion: Summary and critical analysis.

Effective Answer Presentation

1. First Impression: Choose the best answerable question first.

• The first answer sets the tone for the rest.
• Spend a few seconds to choose the best question to answer first.

2. Structure Your Answer: Break down the question.

• Identify and underline key parts of the question.
• Cover all aspects requested (e.g., cause, impact, measures).

3. Introduction: Write a brief definition or description.

• Examples: Food Security, Historical events.
  • Use data if relevant (e.g., India's ranking in food security).

4. Definitions and Thinkers' Views:

• Always include definitions from political scholars or historians.
• Mention thinkers and their books where applicable (e.g., Plato’s Republic).

5. Flowcharts and Diagrams:

• Visual aids simplify complex information.
  • E.g., Graphs showing historical trends, diagrams explaining structures.

6. Charts and Graphs: Depicting Relationships and Changes.

• Trade activities over different periods.
• Graphs showing conditions across different eras (e.g., women's status from Harappa to Gupta period).

Writing Techniques

1. Paragraph Form:

• Write answers in clear, structured paragraphs.
  • Avoid very long or very short paragraphs.

2. Headings and Points:

• Use headings for different points or subtopics.
  • Define each point clearly under its heading.

3. Underline Important Points:

• Teachers scan for critical information.
  • Highlight key points to ensure they are noticed.

4. Conclusion:

• End with criticism and personal opinion if necessary.
  • Suggest solutions where relevant.

5. Neatness:

• Avoid excessive corrections.
  • Use single line strikes for errors.

Common Mistakes

• Reading the entire answer: Teachers don’t; they focus on key points.
• Random large paragraphs: Make it readable and structured.
• Ignoring question parts: Address all required parts of the question.

Tips to Boost Marks

1. Readable Handwriting: It doesn’t need to be beautiful but readable.
2. Effective Use of Time: Plan answers and avoid unnecessary decorations on the answer sheet.
3. Understanding Keywords in Questions:

• Different instructional words (e.g., “Discuss,” “Evaluate”) require different responses.

Conclusion

• Understand and follow the tips in structuring and presenting answers.
• Use supporting material like charts and notes designed as per the suggested format.

For more tips and materials: Download notes provided in the video description.

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