The following three exams are similar in format, length and content to the exams which will be given in Fall 2002. However, please note that I have made some changes in the material presented, and thus a few of the questions on these old exams relate to material that will NOT be covered this semester (or which will be covered at a different time in the semester).
Also note that the correct answers to the essay questions are often quite simple. In many cases, a single phrase or sentence is sufficient to obtain full credit. A lot of students approach essay questions by writing down everything they know that is even vaguely related to the general topic of the question. But this is not an effective strategy, particularly since most of my essay questions are designed to elicit very specific information.
My advice is to read all questions carefully (at least twice), and to try and be clear as to what information the question is looking for before you begin to write an answer. And if you are still unsure exactly what an exam question is asking, do not hesitate to ask me or the TA for further clarification during the exam period.