Many students know the material but lose marks because they run out of time. Good time management starts weeks before the exam and continues in the exam hall.
In the Weeks Before
- Make a revision timetable: list every topic, mark your weak areas, and spread them across the days you have left.
- Use spaced review: revisit each topic several times instead of once.
- Do timed past papers: this is the best way to learn your own pace.
- Protect sleep, especially in the last few days.
In the Exam: A Simple Plan
1. Read the Whole Paper First
Spend a few minutes reading instructions and all questions. Note which questions are compulsory and which are optional.
2. Split Time by Marks
Divide the time available (after reading and checking) by the total marks. For example, in a 2-hour (120-minute) paper worth 100 marks, if you keep 10 minutes for reading and 10 for checking, you have 100 minutes: about 1 minute per mark. A 15-mark question gets about 15 minutes.
3. Start With What You Know
Answering confident questions first builds momentum and secures marks.
4. Don’t Get Stuck
If a question is taking too long, mark it, move on and come back later.
5. Plan Essay Answers Briefly
A 2–3 minute outline keeps long answers focused and saves time overall.
6. Never Leave Blanks
Partial answers often earn some marks. If time is running out, write bullet points.
7. Check Your Work
Use the last minutes to check calculations, units, names and that you answered every part.
If You Panic
Put your pen down, take a few slow breaths, and start with the easiest remaining question.
See also: time management tips and memory strategies.
