Worried about comps? Who isn't? Comprehensive exams. Qualifying exams. Field exams. General exams. Whatever the name at your university, it's the most important exam you'll ever take - your career is on the line. Failure is not an option. How to Pass Comps provides you with proven strategies to pass comps. Everyone knows you can't pull an all-nighter to study for comps, but too few know what it takes to prepare until it's too late. In How to Pass Comps, Thrall relies on 25 years of experience working with graduate students to walk you through everything you need to know: The true purpose of comps What professors are looking for in your comps exam essays How to embrace a professional mindset How to master the literature and hone your analytical thinking How to take smart notes and create a Second Brain How to set up an effective exam study plan How to break down exam questions and write the best possible essays How to bounce back and try again if you don't pass the first time This book will give you the blueprint for passing comps with flying colors. "I wish someone had given me this book when I started graduate school." - Jordan Cohen, Ph.D., Policy Analyst, Cato Institute A. Trevor Thrall received his Ph.D. in political science from M.I.T. [75 pages]