... determining how much time you will be given to write,sample topics, and what readers will be looking for.■Understand the difference between expository and persuasive essays, and beable to locate ... basics, such as how long you will have to write theessay, what the topics might be, and how the essay will be graded, you can begin to prepare more thoroughly.UNDERSTANDING YOUR TOPICThis advice ... chapter to use by taking at least one practice exam.Arm yourself with a few topics, paper, pen, and a timer, and write an essay. The timer willhelp you to see how well you do under pressure, and how...