Grading
The best way to save time while grading a quiz is to spend a little extra time in the development of the quiz. Long answers take to much time to read and usually cause the students to stress out.
Well said, however long answers are sometimes unavoidable. The key that I see is knowing the test. If you have intimate knowlege of what each question is asking you should easily be able to cut to the chase when reviewing student responses.
I agree with you. Many times we will find it difficult to grade when we aren't familiar with the content material. Therefore, when I prepare a test, I spend the extra time on the front end to make sure that I can answer the question correctly. It is hard to expect a student to know the answer to material if I don't know the answer. Preparation on the front end is the best key.
Long answers tend to get students stressed out. If we spend time breaking the answers done when we go over the lecture material, then this should get students better prepared for the exams. It is important to make sure that the students comprehend the material then it won't be a problem. It won't matter if the questions are long or short.