one virtue of the eight-legged essays is that its composition is well defined and easy to follow. for the purpose of administering a large group of exam-takers, this structure allowed convenient regulation as the exam-takers were not likely to deviate from the requirements. thus, this format contributed to ensuring standard and fairness in the civil service examination system. the examiners could reduce the amount of time spent in grading exams by being accustomed to this format, and uncertainties in the grading schemes were reduced. a scholar named tian qilin defended the eight-legged essay by arguing that it embodies the complex chinese cultural and literary tradition.