The most effective kind of final exam essay is one that requires students to synthesize and critically analyze the course material. This type of essay encourages deep engagement with the subject matter, fostering higher-order thinking skills such as evaluation and synthesis. According to a study by the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U), students who engage in writing assignments that require critical thinking and analysis perform better on subsequent exams and demonstrate stronger academic outcomes overall. The data from this study underscores the importance of incorporating essay-based assessments into final exams, as they promote not only knowledge retention but also the development of essential academic skills.