writing responses question (1 Viewer)

[niecoups]

I was just wondering but is it true in chemistry you are able to just draw graphs out of nowhere as part of written responses in order to sustain your answer as well as being able to use dot points or scientific drawings? I keep hearing people say "Ohhhh yeah you can just write dot points/draw graphs in chem instead of writing everything out in full sentences" and I'm just so confused.

If I answered in dot points, exactly how concise are my dot points able to be? Like if I was talking about idk gibbs free energy and the spontaneity of a reaction would I just be able to write smth like

- ∆H<0 endothermic reaction as heat is being released
- ∆S>0 due to a higher ratio of (g) molecules on RHS vs LHS
(insert temperature value, brief ΔG = ΔH - TΔS calulaction)
- ∴ reaction is spontaneous for all temp as ∆G/Gibbs free value is very negative <0 and still be able to get all the marks needed?
Or do I have to word everything out in full english/expand more on my points? And as for diagrams, if a question does not specify about a diagram at all is it fine for me to dump say a matzwell boltzman distribution graph out of nowhere to help sustain my response?

Thanks guys!!!!!!

 

[coolcat6778]

I was just wondering but is it true in chemistry you are able to just draw graphs out of nowhere as part of written responses in order to sustain your answer as well as being able to use dot points or scientific drawings? I keep hearing people say "Ohhhh yeah you can just write dot points/draw graphs in chem instead of writing everything out in full sentences" and I'm just so confused.

If I answered in dot points, exactly how concise are my dot points able to be? Like if I was talking about idk gibbs free energy and the spontaneity of a reaction would I just be able to write smth like

- ∆H<0 endothermic reaction as heat is being released
- ∆S>0 due to a higher ratio of (g) molecules on RHS vs LHS
(insert temperature value, brief ΔG = ΔH - TΔS calulaction)
- ∴ reaction is spontaneous for all temp as ∆G/Gibbs free value is very negative <0 and still be able to get all the marks needed?
Or do I have to word everything out in full english/expand more on my points? And as for diagrams, if a question does not specify about a diagram at all is it fine for me to dump say a matzwell boltzman distribution graph out of nowhere to help sustain my response?

Thanks guys!!!!!!

you have to write in actual sentences because the markers are genuinely retarded

 

[Bendwhat?_over]

I was just wondering but is it true in chemistry you are able to just draw graphs out of nowhere as part of written responses in order to sustain your answer as well as being able to use dot points or scientific drawings? I keep hearing people say "Ohhhh yeah you can just write dot points/draw graphs in chem instead of writing everything out in full sentences" and I'm just so confused.

If I answered in dot points, exactly how concise are my dot points able to be? Like if I was talking about idk gibbs free energy and the spontaneity of a reaction would I just be able to write smth like

- ∆H<0 endothermic reaction as heat is being released
- ∆S>0 due to a higher ratio of (g) molecules on RHS vs LHS
(insert temperature value, brief ΔG = ΔH - TΔS calulaction)
- ∴ reaction is spontaneous for all temp as ∆G/Gibbs free value is very negative <0 and still be able to get all the marks needed?
Or do I have to word everything out in full english/expand more on my points? And as for diagrams, if a question does not specify about a diagram at all is it fine for me to dump say a matzwell boltzman distribution graph out of nowhere to help sustain my response?

Thanks guys!!!!!!

Use dot points, yes. Try to make your answers as succint as possible. If you think a diagram will support your point - regardless of whether the question asks for it - Use a diagram! That option is there, so use it to your advantage.

 

[wizzkids]

The HSC Chemistry examination is not an examination of written English.
No, you cannot just "draw a graph out of nowhere". Yes, the dot points you quoted are probably acceptable in HSC Chemistry as part of a complete answer, but they are not a sufficient answer.
The following types of responses are acceptable (and even encouraged): properly labelled diagram, properly labelled graph, mathematical equations, balanced chemical equations, chemical synthesis pathway, a numbered list, correctly sequenced bullet points. Of course you must add sufficient concise text so that your meaning is clear, but it is good if you can display all the Chemistry skills you have been taught. And lastly, don't waste time and space by repeating the question in your answer. You don't need to write an introductory paragraph, just launch straight into your answer.

 

[Pugsy99]

You’re right – in chemistry (and most sciences) examiners don’t necessarily need full essay-style sentences, they’re looking for evidence that you understand the concept and can communicate it clearly. Dot points, equations, graphs, and diagrams are all acceptable as long as they directly address the question and are scientifically accurate.


The key is clarity. Your Gibbs free energy example would be fine if the points are unambiguous and show the correct reasoning. Just make sure each dot point is complete enough to stand on its own (e.g. don’t just write “∆H<0” – add “= exothermic, heat released” so it’s clear you know why that matters).


As for diagrams, you won’t be penalized for including something like a Maxwell–Boltzmann curve if it’s relevant and labeled properly, but avoid “dumping” extra material if it doesn’t add value – it can waste time and confuse the marker.


So, think of dot points and graphs as tools to make your answer sharper, not shortcuts to write less. If your points are clear, correct, and hit the marking criteria, you’ll still get full marks.