Strategy 2. Include Definitions | Elaborating on Answers Effectively
(C-Level, Advanced Writing Skill)
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Strategy 2: Include definitions
Open-ended questions often ask for a definition. Even when they do not, however, sometimes you can elaborate on an answer by including definitions of terms that appear in the answer.
Just make sure that you still address the question if you choose to include a definition. In other words, if a question asks you to discuss a topic, but you only define it, you are not really answering the question.
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Example of including a definition to elaborate on an answer
Example question
”What are the benefits of a liberal-arts education?”
Simple answer
A liberal-arts education is beneficial in that its well rounded approach to learning fosters communication skills and the development of analytical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to evaluate complex issues from multiple perspectives. It also cultivates a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement.
Answer with elaboration
The answer below starts by defining “liberal arts.”
Liberal arts refers to a broad academic approach that emphasizes the development of critical thinking and analytical skills across multiple disciplines such as the humanities, social and natural sciences, and the arts. A liberal-arts education is beneficial in that its well rounded approach to learning fosters communication skills and the development of analytical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to evaluate complex issues from multiple perspectives. It also cultivates a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement.
Up Next: Strategy 3. Provide Examples
Continue the lesson to learn this technique you can use to elaborate on your answer.