GP Study Guide
A practical checklist for the GP question or draft you are working on now
Build a Usable Example Bank
Keep a focused set of examples you can explain, qualify, and apply to a question
- Focus on 2-3 key themes that interest you most
- Build an example bank of 20 broad examples that apply to multiple topics
- Write down what each example supports, what it does not prove, and another perspective
- Build nuanced perspectives and counter-arguments for each example
Create a Plan
Planning ensures you answer the question. Spend 10-15 minutes creating a solid plan
- Practice analyzing questions: break down question types and identify key terms
- Select examples that directly support the argument you are making
- Build essay structure: draft concise topic sentences and outline arguments
- Check flow: ensure logical flow between paragraphs and verify you answer the question
Deliberate Practice
Draft, compare with feedback, and make one specific revision at a time
- Use flashcards to check whether you can explain and qualify an example from memory
- Practice analyzing questions and crafting essay plans under time pressure
- Practice writing paragraphs or complete essays under exam conditions
- Check your draft against the question and identify one revision to make next