Why Exam Technique Matters
Two students with the same knowledge can get very different grades based on their exam technique. Good technique means: reading questions carefully, managing your time, knowing how marks are allocated, and presenting your answers clearly. These skills are trainable — and they can easily add 10-15% to your score.
Read the Question Twice
The most common exam mistake isn't lack of knowledge — it's misreading the question. Read every question twice. Underline key words: 'calculate', 'explain', 'show that', 'evaluate'. These words tell you exactly what the examiner wants.
Time Management
Before you start, calculate how many minutes you have per mark. For most papers, it's roughly 1 minute per mark. If a question is worth 5 marks, spend about 5 minutes on it. Don't spend 15 minutes on a 3-mark question — move on and come back if you have time.
Allocate Effort by Marks
The number of marks tells you how much detail to include. A 1-mark question needs a brief answer. A 6-mark question needs a structured, detailed response. Match your effort to the marks available.
Show Your Working
In Maths and Science exams, method marks are often worth more than the final answer. Even if your final answer is wrong, clear working can earn you 50-75% of the marks. Always show every step.
Answer Every Question
Never leave a question blank. For multiple choice, an educated guess gives you a 25% chance. For written questions, writing something relevant can earn partial marks. Blank answers guarantee zero marks.
Check Your Work
If you finish early, resist the urge to leave. Go back and check your answers. Look for: calculation errors, missing units, questions you skipped, and whether your answers actually address what was asked.
Practise Under Exam Conditions
The best way to develop exam technique is to practise under realistic conditions. Use StudyVector's exam simulator or complete past papers with strict time limits. The more you practise, the more natural good technique becomes. Start practising today.