Exam Prep III

Now that you are in the exam, what should you do?

1. Allocate your Time

• Have a watch somewhere in plain view;
• Set up a timetable on your scrap paper - use the point allocations provided by your professor to set the time; or if there are no allocations provided, use your best judgment based on the number of questions, length of the questions, and time given for the exam.

2. Read the Question

• Begin by reading the interrogatory at the end of the question;
• Identify what you are asked to do;
• Read the facts "actively".

3. Outline the Answer

• Identify the issues;
• Identify the rule for each issue;
• Compile the building blocks for the rule of law by considering elements, definitions, exceptions to the general rule, relevant distinctions, etc.;
• Follow a hierarchy of concepts by moving from general to specific and defining each legal term of art.

4. Write the Essay

• Begin your statement with, "The issue is whether . . ." and include "when" to ensure that you include the relevant facts;
• Commence your statement of the with, "Under the [controlling law]";
• Use "Here" or "In this case" to introduce your application;
• Use "because" to make the connection between rule and fact;
• Match up a "fact" with each "element" or "definition" in your rule and explain the significance;
• Answer the question you were asked.

For Multiple Choice Questions, remember:

1. Read actively - start with the call of the question, and then move to the fact pattern;

2. Take a moment to "recap" the material facts;

3. Identify the issue;

4. Move from the issue to articulation of your own answer;

5. Translate your "answer" to fit an available and appropriate answer choice.