Questions types and tips

Multiple Choice Questions are often based on a wide range of topics, and ideas from your unit materials may be combined and phrased differently.

• Use reading time to skim through the questions and find the ‘easy’ ones
• Answer the questions you know first, and then spend more time on the difficult ones later (remember to allow enough time to do both)
• Read the questions carefully and cross out the obviously incorrect answers
• Leave enough time to check your choices and above all, do not second-guess yourself

Short Answer Questions require careful reading and time management. It is always important to devise a plan and be concise and to the point.

• Read short answer questions carefully and take special note of the TASK word. By deconstructing the question, the purpose is made clearer and answering the question easier
• Start with easier questions first to collect marks quickly
• Keep to a time limit - make sure you attempt to answer each question, even if only partially

Extended Responses are often the most daunting and sometimes difficult. Always read the question carefully, and always make sure that your response is answering the question being asked. If you are writing an essay, use appropriate essay structure, including an introduction and a conclusion.

• Plan longer responses – give a few minutes to write down key points and plan out the structure of the response
• Ensure your responses give full details, using metalanguage, theories, and giving examples, but be selective... more is not always better!
• Make sure your responses follow a logical order by using well developed and focused topic sentences, clear and concise explanations, and appropriate evidence
• Leave enough time to proofread your responses