a written exam

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a written exam" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to refer to an academic or professional test that is taken in written form, as opposed to an oral exam or practical exam. Example: "I have a written exam tomorrow for my English class. I need to study all night to prepare for it."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Applicants must pass a written exam.

The New York Times - Travel

There is also a written exam.

The New York Times

The clinical placements have been followed by a written exam.

Nurse Education in Practice

The program's final task was a written exam.

The New Yorker

A written exam in the major field of study.

Stanford University

Before getting to the physical test, applicants take a written exam.

The New York Times

In the not-too-distant past, that almost always meant a written exam.

The New York Times

The 13 refrigeration competitors took a written exam, then performed six hours of hands-on tests.

The New York Times

A quick physical and then a written exam on the history of military flowers.

The New Yorker

All the women, including Nisha, successfully passed a written exam and simulated patient scenarios.

Stanford University

Beyond class participation, many students will take a written exam aimed at crystallizing key course lessons.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing exam preparation, specify the type of content covered in the "written exam" to provide clarity. For example, "Prepare for the written exam by reviewing chapters 1-5".

Common error

Avoid using "written exam" interchangeably with other forms of assessment. A "written exam" specifically refers to a test completed in written form, not an oral presentation or practical demonstration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a written exam" functions primarily as a noun phrase, designating a type of assessment that involves written responses. Ludwig provides ample examples of its use in diverse contexts, highlighting its straightforward grammatical role.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Academia

35%

News & Media

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a written exam" is a common and grammatically sound way to refer to an assessment conducted in written form. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's used across a range of contexts from academic evaluations to professional certifications. While alternatives like "a written test" exist, "a written exam" remains the standard choice. To use it effectively, be clear about the exam's content and avoid confusing it with other assessment types. Remember to prepare thoroughly by practicing with sample questions and understanding the format. With these tips in mind, you'll be well-equipped to discuss or prepare for any "a written exam" that comes your way.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a written test

Synonymous, with a slightly less formal tone.

a formal written examination

Adds emphasis on the formality.

a paper-based examination

Emphasizes the physical medium of the exam.

a proctored written exam

Specifies formal supervision.

a pen-and-paper exam

Highlights the traditional method of writing.

a supervised written exam

Implies monitoring during the exam.

a written assessment

Broader term, includes various forms of written evaluation.

a hard-copy exam

Focuses on the physical copy of the exam.

a comprehensive written examination

Highlights the breadth and depth of the exam.

an essay-based exam

Specifies the format as essay writing.

FAQs

How can I effectively prepare for "a written exam"?

Effective preparation involves understanding the exam format, reviewing all relevant material, practicing with sample questions, and ensuring you are comfortable writing within the time constraints. It can also be helpful to create a study plan and allocate time for each topic.

What's the difference between "a written exam" and "an oral exam"?

A "written exam" requires answers to be provided in writing, while "an oral exam" involves answering questions verbally. The former assesses written communication skills and recall, whereas the latter tests immediate comprehension and verbal articulation.

What are some common types of questions in "a written exam"?

Common question types include multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, essay questions, and problem-solving questions. The specific types will vary depending on the subject matter and the purpose of the exam.

Is it correct to say "a writing exam" instead of "a written exam"?

While both phrases convey the same basic idea, "a written exam" is the more conventional and widely accepted term. "A writing exam" is not incorrect, but less frequently used.