russian roulette

[Spreadbury]

sometimes I feel like i'm playing russian roulette with some of the practice passages I try. I often find that they're well..."crap" and difficult to link in, should i have a semi-prepared set of ideas before going in to write the essay which I can mould and link in to the passages i'm given, just so that i know i'll have something to write in the exam?

[iamdan08]

If you are that worried, then maybe. If it helps increase your confidence, then maybe just have a few ideas you can use to link into the passages. I think the main problem people have is starting to write and getting those first sentences on the page. Once you get going it is usually pretty easy. Just keep in mind that the examiners usually choose passages that are based around at least one main idea. They won't give you passages that don't have much substance. Also, just keep in mind that if you are struggling with the passage, you are probably not alone, just keep your cool, and do your best!

[Trent]

There is always, to some extent, main ideas that you can get at from every passage. At least I have found that for Washington Square. If you have a general grasp of those main ideas you can more than likely fit them in somewhere, but just be careful it does not look like you have it pre-prepared.

[Eriny]

I agree. Think of something broad that you want to say about the text that could be applied to any passage.

[Spreadbury]

thanks all, much appreciated