Effective Exam Writing Tips

1. Make sure you read and understand the instructions: This is absolutely crucial. A lot of students are keen to rush ahead and so they quickly skim over the exam instructions. Then, later, they discover that they did it wrong! For example, do you have to do every question on the exam paper, or do you only have to choose a certain number? Is there a penalty for guessing – so is it better not to guess? (For example, because you lose an extra point for each answer you get wrong).

2. Read through the exam and divide up your time accordingly:For example, make a note of the number of questions there are, and notice what all the different questions are worth. This isn’t wasted time as reading through the questions will start to activate your memory. Decide which questions will be easy, and which will take more time, and mentally allocate your time accordingly. Also, allow some time at the end to review what you have written, and do some corrections if you think you’ve made an error.

3. Work through each question systematically: Slowly read through the questions, and underline key words. Also, check to see if there are several parts to any question. Make sure you’ve fully understood what you’re being asked to do, then try and plan your answer before you start to write.

4. Attempt every question: It’s better to do something than nothing at all. You might get a few marks for just thinking along the right lines. If you’re running out of time, then resort to bullets points. You’ll cover more by doing that than writing complete sentences.

5. What of your mind goes blank? Take a few, slow deep breaths and try your best not to panic. It’s important not to let your anxiety take over. Take control of your thinking by reassuring yourself that is only temporary - and soon will pass. Repeat true, positive thoughts like “you’ve worked hard and are ready”, and listen to your breathing – as it starts to slow down again.

6. Review what you’ve written and make corrections if they’re needed: Leave some time to go over your answers at the end – but don’t change what you’ve written unless you’re sure it’s wrong. Also, look out for blank spaces, for questions you have missed, and turn over the last page – in case there’s something at the end!