In many countries, formal exams are used to assess students’ abilities and to judge the success of their education. What are the advantages and disadvantages of using formal exams to assess students’ abilities? Do you think the benefits of using formal exams outweigh the drawbacks?

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Most countries conduct tests to judge students’ knowledge of a subject.
While
this
approach may not assess the entire skillset one possesses,
exams
are necessary as it is a very useful way to grade people
according to
a standard system. On the one hand,
exams
are held 3-4 times a year and the
test
-takers are notified well in advance about them.
This
gives them a chance to prepare and do well on the main day. A few teachers even revise the material and help students get good marks.
Furthermore
, questions asked these days are practical-oriented and make students think rather than write a memorised answer.
This
can
test
real-life applications on the topic and student's ability to think under
test
conditions. In the end, a standard marking criteria is used and marks are allotted that tell how smart a student is. These marks can be used in the future as a reference to how well-versed a pupil is in regard to a subject.
On the other hand
, many suffer from performance anxiety and may end up not doing well.
This
might falsely grade a bright student with a low score even though they studied thoroughly for the exam. A few tests might even have a high passing mark which puts a lot of pressure on the main day.
This
stress, in the long run, can affect the intelligence and decision-making process of the individual.
Moreover
,
exams
test
a person in controlled conditions with a limited time period, which is unrealistic. Real-life situations are sudden, with no time to prepare and use other skills like the ability to think fast, act fast and be sharp and smart in general. Written
exams
, in no way
test
these skills, which can be a drawback. In conclusion, I think the positives outweigh the negatives.
Although
,
Remove the comma
apply
show examples
the stress and anxiety issues cannot be ignored,
exams
are essential as they provide proof of knowledge and grades that are useful for future reference.
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