Section outline

  • We understand that writing a essay-based exam under a time limit is challenging. That is why we have series of events to help you prepare for your exams this year. This support includes:

    1. A Timed-Essay Writing Workshop 

    2. A Mock Timed-Essay Exam

    3. A Feedback Session on the Mock Exam 


    In addition, you will receive:

    a) Exam advice and practice exercises in each of your modules that are tailored to the module's essay exam

    b) Past exam papers to practice your writing

    c) A video explanation of the Essay Grading Criteria to apply in your essay writing throughout the year. 

    d) FAQs below to answer frequently-asked questions about essay-based exams.

    It is our hope that this support will help to alleviate uncertainty around exam expectations and help you to do your best work!



    • Psychology Essay-Style Marking Scheme


    • Psychology Essay Marking Scheme File

      Please review the Psychology Essay Marking Scheme prior to completing the mock essay exam. This will help you to understand how your lecturers will evaluate your essays, and help you to structure your writing. 

      Please also watch the video below, where Dr. Gwen Brekelmans describes the Essay-style Marking Scheme in detail. 

      112.3 KB
    • BSc Psychology Essay-style Marking Scheme Video Walkthrough [22 min] QMplus Media Video

    • 1. Timed essay support session 

      Below, you can find the slides and recording from the session preparing you for timed essay based exams with Chenée Psaros and Rosella D'Alesio. 

    • Slides from Timed essay support session File
      5.4 MB
    • Recording from Timed Essay Support session 29 Oct 2024 QMplus Media Video

      Please see attached for a recording of the Timed Essay Writing Workshop in PSY600.

      The workshop was aimed at Year 3, but would also apply to Year 2 (with 1000 word essays). 

    • 2. Mock Essay-Based Exam 

      You are invited to participate in 2 mock timed essay-based exams. 

      1. There is a "general" essay-based mock exam below. You may familiarize yourself with exam instructions and practice writing a timed exam on a general question based on a broad background in Psychology. 

      2. There will be a scheduled mock essay based exam that draws on content you've learning in your modules

      You will access these exams in the section below. 

    • 3. Essay-based Exam Workshop - Follow-up

      We will host a follow-up workshop to give feedback on the mock exam, and review strategies to help you succeed in essay-based exams. We will also provide a Zoom link for those who cannot join in person. 

    • Recording of Timed Essay-Based Exam Workshop QMplus Media Video
    • Timed Essay-Based Exam Workshop - SLIDES Folder

      Please see attached for slides shared in the Timed Essay-Based Exam Workshop