It’s good to predict and prepare some sample answers before an exam, but remember to answer the question that’s on the page, not the one in your head. You’ll only get marks for information that the question requires.
If you didn’t do as well on a mock or practice exam as you would’ve liked, ask your teacher to go through it with you and find out where you can improve.
In some exams you can choose which question to do. Look at the language carefully, so you know how to give a complete answer, then pick one that allows you to show what you know.
Aim to spend 5-10 minutes at the end of an exam checking over your work, to see if you can pick up extra marks.
You can go over your notes the night before and on the day of your exam, as long as it’s not the only revision you do. Sometimes it’s less stressful to sit and quietly focus your thoughts before an exam instead of trying to cram in extra information.
Give yourself a few minutes to think about your essay question and plan the points you want to make. It doesn’t have to be long – a few bullet points will do.
Create your own personal exam kit: extra pens, scrap paper, water, snacks, a watch to keep track of time, comfortable clothes, and any books or special aids.
Check the time and place of your exam and plan to arrive 10-15 minutes before the start. There might be a last-minute venue change, or your transport might be late.
Break exam questions down to make sure you really understand what is being asked, to have a better chance at getting full marks for it. Look for the key parts in the question to get clues on how to answer it.
Plan how long to spend on each exam answer and the order in which you’ll answer them. Start with the questions you’re most confident with.