Specific, theoretical ideas, for narrative article writing, for exams.

 
     There three possible ways in which you can write such articles (under exam conditions), or even four : (a) in nine parts, as in the earlier form of narrative article writing, (b) structured into five parts (first, then, next, after that, finally), (c) in three parts (Introduction, Body, Conclusion), and (d) following the format established by the exam-preparation book. 
 
     (a) In nine parts.  You can structure your narrative article as you did in the earlier form of writing; that is, Title – Introduction – Setting (time) – Setting (place) – Characters – Plot summary – Conflict – Resolution of conflict – Conclusion.  However, due to time constraints, you should only (quickly) write down the main concepts and ideas for each section in the plan; then, you can use these very basic ideas to develop your sentences, section by section.  Here, you only need a few “key words” to trigger your writing.  However, this method may not be suitable for many exams, as time is so short. 
     (b) Follow the “first, then, next, after that, finally” model.  This method is good for writing about and describing sequential events (i.e., what happened during last night’s party).  Here, you should use the past tense.  However, for other time-frames, this method is unsuitable. 
     (c) Follow the “Introduction, Body, Conclusion” model.  The Introduction will have a “lead sentence”, which summarizes the whole event; from this sentence comes the whole story.  The Body will (usually) have three parts (beginning, middle, and end).  The Conclusion will have a summary of the events, and / or the results of the story.  This method can often be adapted to most questions; it is therefore very versatile. 
     (d) Exam forms.  Many exams expect you to follow “their way” of answering the question.  First, you should make sure if there is an expected way to write; if there is, learn it and do it.  You should become familiar with the “exam preparation” books, especially their special way of answering the questions.  The first three ways of answering narrative article questions can all be useful, but usually this last way is the best, by necessity. 
 
     Please remember : “exam writing” and “real-life writing” are two different styles of writing.  Each has its place in your life, but they usually do not meet.  You have to learn to “live two lives”, in this respect.