X1.4
ACADEMIC SKILLS CENTRE, DAWSON COLLEGE
EXIT EXAM: STRATEGIC TIPS
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As a rule, an essay is easier to interpret than a short story: the author’s main ideas are often stated directly.
Nevertheless, you should look at all three readings and choose the one with a main idea that interests you.

If in doubt, check the Writing Guidelines sheet to see if an item is an essay or a short story. (The Guidelines
also indicate the author’s gender.)

If you don’t have time to write a full rough draft, try to draft and edit your opening and closing paragraphs.

The title of any Exit Exam reading (essay or short story) must be presented in quotation marks.

Write clearly, in blue or black ink. Double-space your essay unless your handwriting is very neat. Be sure
that punctuation and capitalization are distinct.

Never refer to the author by first name only. (Use the full name for the first reference, then last name only.)

Refer to the author frequently—perhaps in every paragraph. (Your topic is actually this person’s ideas, so
keep the focus on him/her.) Be certain to refer to the author in your conclusion.
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You may use “I…” if you like, but it is safer to stick to an objective, moderately formal essay style.

The body of your essay may contain any reasonable number of paragraphs (not necessarily three). It is
essential to develop a separate paragraph for each of your main points.

Quotations are not an actual requirement, but it is very appropriate to include some. It’s often more useful to
quote a key phrase of a few words than to use include unnecessary wording.

Short quotations should be integrated smoothly into your own sentences whenever possible.

Don’t bother with citations or page references; they’re not necessary.

Spelling counts, but not as much as grammar, punctuation, and other more important aspects of your writing
skills. (Take care with your spelling, but don’t spend an hour on it.)

While you may choose a casual tone, it is much safer to write in a moderately formal style using standard
English. Avoid slang terms and expressions (kid, guy, pretty good, etc.) unless you have a special reason to
use them in your essay.

Topic sentences and effective paragraphing are of great importance in a successful essay.

Proofread your completed essay with care, looking closely at grammar and punctuation.
WM 2003