Examinations

Below are some exam tips for students:


Topic Tips
Pre-Exam Preparation
  • Revise thoroughly well in advance of the examination.
  • Use past papers to help you prepare. This will familiarise you with the exam format.
  • Get a good night's sleep before the exam. You will perform better if your mind is fresh.
Exam Day Preparation
  • Take time to carefully read the information, instructions and advice on the front of the exam paper.
  • Make sure you understand how the marks are allocated. The number of marks allocated to each question is your guide as to how much detail to include in your answer.
Answering the Questions
  • Read the question carefully and make sure you fully understand what is being asked. You are marked on how well you answer the question set (not what you want the question to be).
  • Make sure that your response answers the question asked. If you are asked to give two viewpoints, make sure that you give two in your answer.
  • Stick to the point. Make sure your answer is focused on the question being asked. Beware of wasting time writing details and facts that do not help answer the question.
  • Keep asking yourself if you are answering the question. This will ensure that you keep your answers relevant.
  • If a question asks ‘how’ and ‘why’ you must show both your knowledge and understanding of a topic. It is important that you answer both parts of the question. Some students focus too much on stating what they know, but miss out on marks because they do not show that they understand by explaining ‘why’.
  • In some questions, you are asked to give an explanation of something by giving examples and providing reasons. Make sure your answer both parts of the question by listing examples and discussing the issues and reasons connected to the examples.
Managing Your Time
  • Make sure you know how much time is allocated for the exam.
  • Manage your time carefully. Make sure you allow enough time for each question.
  • Don’t rewrite the question on your answer booklet. This is a waste of time and a waste of space in your answer booklet.
  • Don’t get bogged down and spend too much time one question. Have an idea how much time you should spend on each question with the ones carrying most marks receiving the most time.
  • Be confident and remember that we write the questions to allow you to show us what you know and what you can do. We will not deliberately try to trick you into giving a wrong answer.
  • Try to make sure your punctuation, spelling and grammar are correct as some marks may be allocated to this.
  • Try to keep your hand-writing as neat as possible as we can’t give you any marks if we can’t read your answers.
  • When you are doing a calculation, set out each step clearly so you can still get some marks even if you get the answer wrong.
  • Keep calm. Even if things aren’t going well try not to panic.
Review
  • If time permits, check over your answers and correct any errors.
Afterwards
  • After the exam is over, relax and don’t worry about it.
  • Don’t compare answers with your friends.