Write to Impress: Exam Writing Strategies That Work

Imagine you open an exam paper. The task reads: 'Write a persuasive letter to your school head teacher arguing that students should have longer break times.' You have 45 minutes. Your mind goes blank. Sound familiar? Most exam writing problems are not really about writing talent — they are about strategy. Students who do well in exam writing are rarely those who write the most. They are the ones who plan smartly, choose words carefully, and stay in control of their time. Before we dive in, think about your own exam writing habits.