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We are located in HT 2,
Room 107,
next to the West Information Desk.
view
map
Open 8:00 - 5:00
Mon. through Fri.
Closed during Summer.
Access the
ELECTRONIC
WRITING CENTER
Contact
Phil Mateer,
Writing Center Director
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In order to write good answers to an essay question,
a background knowledge of the subject matter is not sufficient. A student
must have a clear understanding of the directive words. A paper must
answer the question that is asked.
Words frequently used in essay examinations:
| COMPARE |
Bring out points of
similarity and points of difference. |
| CONTRAST |
Bring out points of
difference. |
| CRITICIZE |
Criticize may approve or
disapprove. State your opinion on the merits of the issue or item. |
| DEFINE |
Give the meaning of a
word or concept. |
| DESCRIBE |
Write a word picture;
give an account of; tell about. |
| EXPLAIN |
Interpret; tell "how" to
do; tell the meaning of. |
| EVALUATE |
Give the good points and
the bad ones; talk about advantages and limitations. |
| ILLUSTRATE |
Use a word picture, a
chart, a diagram, or a concrete example to clarify a point. |
| INTERPRET |
Give your thinking about
the subject; translate; give the meaning of. |
| JUSTIFY |
Present facts to support
your position; give your evidence. Show good reasons for. |
| PROVE |
Establish the truth of
something by giving logical reasons or factual evidence. |
| SUMMARIZE |
Give the main points
briefly. |
| TRACE |
Give a description of
progress; follow the course of. |
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