Preparing For Examinations

Our June examinations are around the corner and preparing for examinations is just as important as studying for your subjects. Below are some helpful hints on how to prepare for your examinations:

Helpful hints

• Familiarise yourself with your examination timetable.
• Ensure that you know exactly:

• what work will be covered in each subject,
• the format of each examination paper,
• the time allocation,
• the equipment that may be needed for the examination (e.g. calculator for Mathematics).

• Get copies of old examination papers and worksheets (IGCSE and AS/A Level).
• By now all your notes should be up to date and you should have all that you need to study effectively for the examinations.
• Prepare your study area.  Some things to consider are:

• have a good source of light
• have lots of paper available
• a clear work surface
• coloured pens if you prefer to use colour
• light or unobtrusive music if you prefer to learn with music

Keeping healthy

• Eat fresh foods such as fruit and nuts.  Pile up on the vegetables in the evenings and drink plenty of water and fruit juice to keep the flu at bay.  The brain needs to be fed well in order for it to perform at its optimum.
• Try not to nibble on too many chocolates and sweets while studying.
• With that said, the odd sweet or chocolate will provide an energy boost when you feel really tired.
• Getting a good night’s rest is also important.  Sleep will rejuvenate you and keep you going.

Just before the examination

• Get a good night’s sleep.
• Have a good breakfast.
• Arrive at the venue with time to spare.
• Make sure you have the right equipment, tissues, watch, etc.

During the examination

• Don’t rush into answering questions.
• Read the instructions at the beginning to ensure that you know how to answer all the questions and how many questions to answer.
• Read through the questions carefully.
• If there is a choice of questions, make your choice carefully.  Underline key words in the questions.
• Stick to the time plan given to you by your teacher.
• At the end of the examination, if you have time, read through your paper to check that you have answered all of the questions.

Julian Harrison
Cambridge Examinations Officer