Instructions

Exam questions come from reading & class discussion, and can include points brought out by your fellow classmates. As such, good attendance, conscientious note-taking, and active and regular participation will always constitute the best preparation for exams in this class. 

• The mid-term and final exams will include primarily short-answer and essay questions, and will be taken from our class discussion, which means that you should always read and then take notes and participate in class.

• The final exam is cumulative—i.e., it will cover the entire semester’s works from the syllabus.

Additional advice: 

• Consider a study group. Just as there is no good substitute for regular reading and writing, there is little substitute for participating in class. One exception is having a study group that meets regularly to discuss what you are reading and writing. The more you can talk out loud with others about what you are reading, the better your chances of retaining information for exams. 

• Take notes. You'll notice that there are several places in the syllabus and on this website where I advocate taking notes. Keeping a reading journal and taking notes is the best way to make sure you are processing and retaining what you read and what we discuss in the classroom. There are many resources on the internet to help you devise a note-taking method in class and on your readings. 

• Ask questions, talk to your classmates. Active participation in class is the best way to keep yourself honest about what you are reading. Having a sense of curiosity is the best way to learn. Keep an open mind, and don't be afraid to ask questions. 

• Research. Look up words you don't know (but avoid distractions). Foster that curious mind by looking up any related issues, events, etc. about your reading. It will give you a fuller sense of your reading, give you things to say in class, and maybe even spark a paper idea or two. 

• Mix it up. Consider creating a picture or work of art inspired by your reading. Create a cluster or list. Find creative ways to process information. 

• Don't neglect the basics. While characters, titles, and authors aren't everything, it can't hurt to remember these as they will help you study, especially as you get partial points on exams for authors and titles.

• Focus. Short bursts of reading can work just as well, or even better than long stretches. Consider techniques such as the Pomodoro timer for 25 minutes of focused work, followed by a 5-minute break, and repeat.