Guided Practice
Overview
Practice the essential skills for timed essay writing: quick planning, thesis development, and efficient paragraph construction. These exercises build the habits needed for success under time pressure.
Practice Problems
Question 1: You have 45 minutes for an essay. How should you divide your time?
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Answer: Planning: 5-7 min, Writing: 30-35 min, Revising: 5-7 min
Never skip planning - it actually saves time by preventing writer's block and disorganization.
Question 2: Create a quick thesis for this prompt: "Should schools require students to learn a second language?"
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Answer: Example: "Schools should require second language study because it enhances cognitive development, improves career prospects, and fosters cultural understanding."
A strong thesis states your position and previews your main supporting points.
Question 3: What's the fastest way to generate supporting ideas for a timed essay?
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Answer: Quick brainstorm list (1-2 minutes), then select your 2-3 strongest points
Don't overthink - write down 5-6 ideas quickly, then circle the ones you can develop best with examples.
Question 4: What should each body paragraph contain in a timed essay?
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Answer: Topic sentence, 1-2 examples/evidence, brief analysis, transition
Keep it focused: one main idea per paragraph, developed with specific support.
Question 5: You're running out of time with 5 minutes left and haven't written a conclusion. What should you do?
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Answer: Write a brief 2-3 sentence conclusion restating thesis and main insight
A short conclusion is better than none. Even "In conclusion, [restate thesis]. This matters because [final thought]" is acceptable.
Question 6: What makes an effective first sentence for a timed essay?
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Answer: A clear, engaging hook that relates directly to the topic
Options: provocative question, surprising fact, brief anecdote, or direct statement about the topic's importance.
Question 7: How can you quickly add complexity to an argument?
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Answer: Acknowledge a counterargument, then refute it
"While some argue that [opposing view], this overlooks [reason]. In fact, [your response]." Shows nuanced thinking.
Question 8: Create a quick outline for: "What is the most important quality for a leader to have?"
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Answer: Example: Intro (thesis: empathy is most important), Body 1 (empathy builds trust), Body 2 (empathy enables better decisions), Body 3 (counterargument: some say strength), Conclusion
A quick outline takes 2-3 minutes but prevents rambling and ensures completeness.
Question 9: What should you do if you realize your thesis is weak after starting to write?
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Answer: Keep writing, but adjust your thesis when you revise at the end
Don't restart! It's easier to revise a thesis later than to lose time starting over. Your thesis can evolve.
Question 10: During the final 5 minutes of revision, what should you prioritize?
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Answer: 1) Check that your thesis is clear, 2) Fix obvious errors, 3) Ensure conclusion connects to thesis
Don't try to rewrite - focus on clarity, major errors, and overall coherence.