Midterms are looming over us, and stress is rampant. The library is full of students studying and clicking away on their keyboards. They're preparing for the two main kinds of midterms: exams and essays. Everyone has a preference, but there are a lot of variables. An argument can be made for either one as the ideal kind. As a Professional Writing major, I generally prefer essays. That does not mean, however, that I would rather have an essay than an exam for all my classes.
For my Astronomy class, the midterm is an exam, which I am more comfortable with. When it comes to Astronomy, I don't understand it on a level to where I can confidently write an essay on the terms and concepts. I feel like my knowledge of the material is better tested with an exam.
On the other hand, it makes sense that I would have an essay for my Philosophy class. An exam where I need to know definitions does not test my knowledge in the same way as an essay where I must prove my understanding. With some classes, it's not as obvious which type of midterm is best. The students could be divided on what they prefer.
There are pros and cons to both options.
Some possible pros to exams are:
-time to study
-one right answer
-straight-forward
-good for definitions
-multiple choice
Some possible cons to exams are:
-less time to complete
-only one right answer
-can't use notes
-trick questions
Some possible pros to essays are:
-time to form complete ideas
-ability to edit and improve
-feedback from peers
-use of notes and Internet
-numerous right answers
Some possible cons to essays are:
-not best for definitions
-no given options
-desire for perfection
-takes longer than a test
Whether you're taking tests or writing papers, here's a little word of encouragement, courtesy of Nelson Mandela:
"It always seems impossible until it's done."
