Why is paraphrasing considered an important skill in exam preparation?

Paraphrasing is considered an important skill in exam preparation primarily because it demonstrates comprehension and helps to avoid plagiarism. When a student paraphrases, they are required to fully understand the original material so that they can rephrase it in their own words while retaining the original meaning. This process not only enhances understanding but also reflects the ability to engage with the material critically.

Additionally, effective paraphrasing shows that a student can convey the same information without directly copying it, which is essential in academic writing. By doing so, they maintain academic integrity and respect the work of other authors, which is crucial in scholarly environments. This skill is especially valuable during exams where demonstrating understanding through original expression is often a key requirement.