Hi any input on the following would be greatly appreicated, especially from those of you who are repeating level III: What would you say is the surest and most preferred format in which to answer an essay question–i.e., with a full sentence (explanations “because… and that is the reason why…”) or key words, though fragmented?
Fragmented with key words and bullet points… This is absolutely essential if you want to finish the exam in time. There are is no extra credit for proper grammar.
Adding to what McLeod81 stated above, solving as many Q papers as possible is the key which I lacked during my 2009 attempt… this is the only way to “know” how to approach essay Qs
I disagree that using bullets is essential. i wrote out paragraphs and had plenty of time to get through it. i know it didn’t add any points to my score, but the answers flowed better from me with quasi full sentences. regardless do not write irrelevent information, just answer the question precisely. my advice, figure out what works best for you on the practice exams (under timed conditions of course) and follow what you’re comfortable with. don’t try to force a method that you’re not comfortable with; the goal is to maximize your points so figure how best to do that beforehand on the practice exams and follow that method when it’s the real deal.
Thanks for your comments. One question though, do you think answers with key words and bullet points would have a better chance at being graded to its intended maximum than otherwise, because graders would not have to pore over answers, if few key words jump up to them?
It doesn’t matter how you answer the question, as long as you cover every point that they’re looking for.
bullet points are the way to go. last year, spoke with a former grader who swore that graders are much more pleased when things are clear and concise…makes their life easier. made perfect sense to me. there are no points for grammar, sentence structure, etc. plus bullet points save time.
bullet points only
- Bullet points ONLY - If you find the answer directly in question, dont change it. write it as it is in the question. (especially for the return objectives) - they understand some candidates dont really understand english, so they dont expect perfect grammar.
short and sharp bullets.
This exam sounds really tough.
Though I’m relatively new to the board, I would recommend reading this thread for additional insight regarding the matter… http://www.analystforum.com/phorums/read.php?13,996488
Thanks again for your comments on essay question answer formats. How about a sample, would you please? (I’m sorry I’m really not comfortable yet with “bullet points”) What would you say is the reason for Buffet to move away from equities and delve into bonds? Isn’t the US economy poised to enter into a recovery phase in 2010 and if so, wouldn’t investment in equities be more–if anything–CFA Level III intuitive? State with one reason on Buffet’s decision
bullet points are generally probably fine. the bigger issue is sometimes what level of detail you want you to get into. i’ve seen it all over the map in practice questions. written giant answer (individual IPS Q) i did terribly on. probably bigger issue there was whether to do in pencil or not.
In my 2008 attempt, I did not use bullets and had left 3 questions unanswered. In 2009, used bullets and was able to complete it just in time. Though would have to say that I prepared better for the 2009 attempt and actually gave 4 timed essay tests 2 weeks before the exam.
Bullet points. You can see schweser practice book recommended answers as examples. When I first saw the brevity of the answers, I thought it was a joke. But after some practice, guess it was the most practical way to answer. Used it in the exam this year and passed. By the way, I took both exams in 2008 (failed) and 2009. Last year, I only managed to complete 5 questions and left the rest either blank or some desperate answers hoping for mercy marks. This year managed to complete all with 10 mins to spare.