Strategies to Write Answers in IGNOU Exams
Introduction
IGNOU exams differ from regular university exams. They require clear understanding, structured writing, and concept-based explanations, not lengthy narratives. Many students know the answers but lose marks due to an exam-unfriendly writing style.
This guide provides strategies for writing high-scoring answers in IGNOU TEE. These techniques are useful across various programs such as BA, BCom, MA, MEG, MPS, MPA, BCA, MSO, MCO, MBA, and others.
Why Answer-Writing Matters in IGNOU
IGNOU evaluates:
- clarity
- structure
- relevance
- understanding of concepts
- ability to connect points logically
- presentation
Markers prefer organized, meaningful, and exam-oriented answers.
How to Write High-Scoring Answers in IGNOU Exams
Read the Question Properly
Before writing, ensure you understand:
- What is being asked?
- Is it a definition, explanation, list, evaluation, or comparison?
- How long should the answer be?
Examples
If the question states:
- “Explain” → Provide detailed points and examples
- “Discuss” → Present both sides and conclude
- “Define” → Offer a brief, clear definition
- “List” → Supply bullet points
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Start with a Strong Introduction
Every long answer should begin with a short introduction.
Tips for Introduction
- Write 2–3 lines
- Define the topic
- Mention the context
- Keep it simple and clear
Example Introduction
“Leadership refers to the ability to influence and guide people. It plays a crucial role in organizational development and decision-making.”
Use Headings and Subheadings
IGNOU evaluators appreciate clear formatting.
Use:
- Titles
- Subheadings
- Bullets
- Numbering
- Paragraph separation
This improves readability and leaves a good impression.
Write in Bullet Points (Most Important)
Long paragraphs can lower scores because they obscure key ideas.
Bullet points help IGNOU evaluators:
- locate answers quickly
- understand your structure
- award more marks
Format Example
- Definition
- Features
- Importance
- Examples
- Conclusion
Explain Each Point Clearly
Just listing points isn’t enough.
Write like this:
- Point
2–3 lines explaining the point
Example:
- Democracy promotes equality
It ensures that every individual has equal rights and opportunities without discrimination.
Use IGNOU Study Material Language
IGNOU prefers its own content.
So:
- Read blocks
- Use terms from units
- Implement IGNOU-style headings
This can increase your marks because examiners compare your answer with the study material.
Include Real Examples
Examples strengthen your answers.
Examples might be:
- Indian Constitution
- Real-world scenarios
- Famous personalities
- Government schemes
- Social issues
Example
“For example, the MNREGA scheme promotes rural employment…”
Create Diagrams or Flowcharts (If Relevant)
Diagrams can help you score higher in subjects like:
- Sociology
- Psychology
- Public Administration
- Political Science
- Management
- Economics
Example:
Flowchart of Communication Process
Sender → Message → Channel → Receiver → Feedback
Write a Conclusion
Every long answer should end with a brief conclusion.
Conclusion Should Be:
- 2–3 lines
- summary of main points
- simple and meaningful
Example
“Thus, motivation is essential for employee performance and organizational growth.”
Time Management During Exam
You have 3 hours for the exam.
Divide your time as follows:
- 30 minutes for 10-mark questions
- 1 hour for 20-mark questions
- 1 hour for remaining long answers
- 30 minutes for revision
Use Simple English
Avoid writing overly complicated sentences.
Use:
- simple words
- short sentences
- direct explanations
IGNOU checks for clarity, not English fluency.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
❌ Writing stories
❌ Including too much irrelevant content
❌ No headings
❌ No examples
❌ Long paragraphs
❌ Very short answers
❌ Poor handwriting
❌ No conclusion
How IGNOU Examiners Give Marks
Examiners check:
- Understanding
- Structure
- Relevance
- Use of block content
- Logical flow
- Clarity
If your answer looks neat and organized, you score higher.
Sample Answer Structure (For Any 10 or 20 Mark Question)
Introduction (2–3 lines)
Define the topic.
Main Body
Use 4–7 subheadings:
- Concept
- Explanation
- Features
- Types
- Importance
- Advantages / Disadvantages
- Examples
Conclusion (2–3 lines)
Summarize the main idea.
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Model Answer Example (IGNOU format)
Question: Explain the characteristics of democracy.
Introduction
Democracy refers to a system of government where power lies with the people. Citizens participate directly or indirectly in governance.
Characteristics of Democracy
- Free and Fair Elections
Elections allow citizens to choose their representatives without fear or pressure. - Rule of Law
Every individual is equal before the law, regardless of status or position. - Protection of Rights
Democracy ensures fundamental rights such as freedom of speech and equality. - Accountability of Government
The government must explain its actions to the public. - Citizen Participation
Citizens engage in public decisions and civic processes.
Conclusion
Thus, democracy ensures equality, rights, and participation for all members of society.
Internal Links (Academicvox.com)
You can insert these links inside the blog:
- IGNOU Assignment Status Not Updating – Reasons & Solutions
https://academicvox.com/ignou-assignment-status-not-updating/ - IGNOU Exam Answer Writing Strategy
https://academicvox.com/ignou-exam-answer-writing-strategy/ - IGNOU Hall Ticket Guide
https://academicvox.com/ignou-hall-ticket/
External IGNOU Links
- IGNOU Official Website
https://ignou.ac.in - IGNOU Student Zone
https://ignou.ac.in/studentzone
Final Tips
✔ Always write answers in a clear structure
✔ Maintain handwriting clarity
✔ Include examples
✔ Use IGNOU terms
✔ Never write irrelevant content
✔ Keep answers exam-oriented