1. I don’t think there is too big of a difference between an inconsequential situation and for an exam situation. The strategies build on each other. For an inconsequential situation, I try to cover all my bases in answering the question, but I am much more bold in my thought process. When I know there is nothing on the line, I feel comfortable in challenging my understanding of a subject material by wondering different questions, possibilities, and tinkering with ideas so I can truly understand. When answering a question on a midterm, I answer the question based off the knowledge and concepts acquired prior to the midterm. Usually, there is something about the question that is obvious, to me, that a certain concept should be mentioned. Therefore, my answer for a midterm question is usually much more structured and is less likely to be bold in its thought process.
2. An example of an inconsequential situation would be questions that arise during readings or during class. I am comfortable with bouncing ideas (as long as the idea is within reason) and thoughts with myself, and with other people. By doing this, I acquire a good understanding/idea of the importance of what is discussed and of the potential different school of thoughts! Understanding whether my ideas/thoughts had potential/merit allows me to transfer over the knowledge with confidence during an exam situation.
3. I think two of the biggest challenges for me with the upcoming midterm is 1) being comfortable with answering questions that asks me my opinion on how a mechanism (that remains to be elucidated) operates and 2) pushing past the “panic” mode that kicks in at the half-way point, and remind myself that I know and understand the material so there is nothing to panic about!