The teacher posts a question on a presentation slide or overhead projector that is similar to those that will be used on major exams, gives students an appropriate amount of time to decide on an answer quietly and independently, then asks students to share their answers with a partner, a small group, or with the whole class. After students have shared their responses, the teacher gives the correct answer, clarifies misunderstood material, or builds upon student responses to craft a more complete answer.

This SET challenges students to make a personal commitment as they use their knowledge and understanding of course content to express to a partner or a group their answer to the instructor's questions. Since students receive immediate feedback, any misunderstandings are quickly corrected just as their correct understandings are validated and reinforced. This technique also helps the teacher assess students' learning. Finally, it can reduce student anxiety about the kinds of questions that will be on major exams and point to areas that warrant further study.