How to Write Short Notes in IGNOU TEE (Dec Session)
Writing short notes in IGNOU Term-End Exams (TEE) can greatly improve your scores if done right. Many students underestimate the value of short notes and miss out on easy marks. This guide offers a clear step-by-step approach to writing effective short notes for the December session.
Understanding Short Notes in IGNOU Exams
What Are Short Notes?
Short notes are concise answers that highlight the main points of a topic. They usually appear in 2 to 6 mark questions. The aim is to convey important ideas clearly in a limited space.
Why Short Notes Matter
- They help you score marks quickly.
- They show understanding without lengthy explanations.
- They save time during exams.
Preparation Before the Exam
Know the Syllabus
Short notes typically cover definitions, key points, lists, or examples. Get familiar with the syllabus topics that often come up.
Review Previous Year Question Papers
Looking at the past 5 to 10 years of TEE papers helps you spot common topics for short notes.
Make One-Page Summaries
Create one-page notes for each subject. Summarize key points, dates, formulas, or definitions. This makes it easy to review before the exam.
How to Select Points for Short Notes
Focus on Key Concepts
Include only essential points that explain the topic clearly. Avoid irrelevant details.
Use Keywords
Find keywords for each topic. For example, in a question about “Functions of Management,” use: planning, organizing, staffing, directing, controlling.
Prioritize Clarity
Each point should be easy to understand, concise, and self-explanatory.
Structure of High-Scoring Short Notes
Use Headings and Subheadings
Even in short notes, small headings or numbering makes them easier to read.
Use Bullet Points
Bullet points make notes structured, clear, and quick to write.
Include Examples if Possible
Adding a small example shows how to apply the concept and can earn extra marks.
Avoid Long Paragraphs
Long paragraphs can reduce clarity and take more time to write.
Time Management for Short Notes During Exams
Allocate Time According to Marks
- 2-mark questions → 1 to 2 minutes
- 4-mark questions → 3 to 4 minutes
- 6-mark questions → 5 to 6 minutes
Start with Familiar Topics
Begin with short notes on topics you know well. This saves time and boosts confidence.
Leave Time for Revision
Use the last 5 to 10 minutes to quickly review your answers.
Techniques to Write Short Notes Quickly
Use Abbreviations Where Clear
Shorten repetitive terms without losing clarity. For instance, use “Mgmt” for “Management” consistently.
Underline Keywords
Highlight important words to structure your answers and catch the examiner’s attention.
Practice Writing Concisely
While preparing, practice writing short notes within a set time to increase your speed.
Handling Difficult Short Notes Questions
Break the Topic Into Parts
Divide the topic into 3 to 4 points. Even partial answers can earn marks.
Write What You Know
Never leave a short note blank. Partial points are better than none.
Use Examples or Diagrams
A small labeled diagram or example can make your answer clearer and earn extra marks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Writing Too Much
Short notes need brevity. Long paragraphs waste time and might confuse the examiner.
Missing Keywords
Always include essential keywords that define the concept. Leaving them out can cost you marks.
Ignoring the Question
Sometimes students write general notes that are not related to the question. Stick closely to the topic.
Messy Handwriting
Even short notes should be neat. Illegible answers diminish clarity.
Practical Tips for December Session
Revise One-Page Notes Daily
Daily revision before the exam ensures quick recall.
Practice Previous Year Short Notes
Working through 5 to 10 years of past TEE papers builds speed and confidence.
Simulate Exam Conditions
Practice writing short notes in 5 to 6 minutes per question to get used to the timing.
Use Color Coding in Notes
While preparing, highlight keywords or headings with a pen to improve your memory retention.
Advantages of Writing Short Notes Effectively
Time-Saving
Short notes take less time to write than long answers. This allows you to focus on longer questions.
High Scoring Potential
When prepared well, short notes often earn full marks because the answers are precise and relevant.
Better Revision Tool
Your exam-day notes will serve as a quick review tool for other topics as well.
Conclusion
Short notes are a key part of the IGNOU TEE exams. Writing effective short notes takes preparation, practice, and clarity. By understanding the syllabus, reviewing past papers, preparing concise points, and practicing timed writing, students can confidently answer short note questions in the December session. Well-crafted short notes save time and help maximize marks, making them essential to your exam strategy.