Principles of Linguistics Problem Set Answers
Linguistics 20
Bruce Hayes
UCLA
1. The Principle of the Benevolent Problem Set Constructor
If there is some generalization you're supposed to pick up, there are probably enough examples in the problem set for you to find it. No one is asking you to be clairvoyant.
2. Dealing with Indeterminacy
What is there is more than one possible answer to the problem, each answer being compatible with the data and the theory?
Answer: don't get upset. Point out the indeterminacy in your answer, and explain why there is an indeterminacy. State that you are picking out one particular answer to present, and present that one answer clearly.
You can obtain glory and your TA's admiration if you state what additional data, not included in the problem set, could decide between the two approaches. Example: "we could establish the correct answer if we knew how you say 'my two ducks' in Kapluvian."
3. Do you suspect a typo?
Look at the data seriously, and if you conclude that something is probably a typo, please ask. If it's too late to ask, say explicitly in your homework that you're assuming a typo.
4. Is it ok to speculate?
Yes, within limits. Wild speculation looks undisciplined, but thoughtful speculation brings zest to a problem set answer and can bring pleasure to your TA's work day.
5. What helps make an answer clear?
Give examples to illustrate what you are doing. In other words, quote the
data in the problem which show how your rules work. Put the examples in the text right next to the point that they illustrate.
6. And?
Nice prose helps. In longer homeworks, good higher-level organization helps -- a place for everything and everything in its place, so the reader never has to hunt for anything.
To fulfill these ends: do a second edit after your initial write-up. This can produce a truly readable answer, which will brighten your TA's work day and let you practice a real-life skill.