Contents
Introduction
Great exam technique can help you convert your hard-earned physics knowledge into a top grade.
In this post, we’re going to explore 10 top tips to help you maximise your exam performance and get the results you’re looking for!
Let’s begin!
Use a trusted system for timing
Firstly, you’ll need to create a trusted system for your timing in the exam. Divide the total time available in the exam between the sections according to how many marks are available in each section. This sounds simple, but actually sticking to the timing can be challenging!
That’s why you’ll need to practice your timings with past papers so you develop an intrinsic feel for how long each section takes and you’re not tempted to spend too long on difficult questions.
You might also find that some sections—such as multiple choice questions—take you longer than a minute per mark on average. In this case, you could consider doing these last so they don’t drain time from questions that you could have answered faster!
Interpret the question carefully
Having a standard method for interpreting questions is extremely helpful. For example, you could:
- Circle instruction words
- Underline numerical values
- Box or double-underline quantities to be calculated
These techniques give you a methodical approach so you can interpret questions reliably under exam pressure instead of being tempted to rush.
You should also write down any properties you’re given and any you’re asked to calculate. This makes it easier to work out which equations you need!
Use the number of marks available to guide your answer
Particularly for explanatory and descriptive answers, write a few more points than the number of marks available.
For example, if you’re asked to explain a phenomenon for 3 marks, try to make 4-6 relevant points that directly answer the question. This way, there will be a good chance that at least three of your points are reflected in the mark scheme.
Show your working for calculations
Write the equations you’re using out in full, and show clearly any steps of rearranging or combining equations. To minimise the risk of introducing numerical errors, rearrange equations fully before substituting in numerical values.
By showing your working, you’re demonstrating to the examiner that you know what you’re doing, and enabling them to award you high marks.
Convert units where necessary
If a question gives values in non-SI units or if a graph’s axes are labelled with non-SI units, you will need to convert these into SI units before using them in calculations.
Similarly, if you are asked to provide an answer in a non-SI unit, you’ll need to remember to convert your answer into that unit at the end of your calculation.
Learning prefixes, units and conversions thoroughly can save you from getting muddled and help you score a surprising number of easy marks.
Round to an appropriate number of significant figures
In your working, write each numerical answer to a large number of significant figures (to preserve accuracy), and then present your final answer to the lowest number of significant figures appearing in the given values.
A mark is often awarded simply for presenting your final answer to the correct number of significant figures.
Plan long-form answers and use full sentences
Long-form answers are usually required when you are asked to explain a phenomenon or describe an experiment. Such questions are typically worth 6 or more marks and it’s okay (and recommended!) to spend a minute or two planning your answer before you write it out.
Jot down your points as you think of them, and then re-order to ensure that any method steps are in a sensible order and that your answer is logical. Check that you’ve included relevant details about the apparatus, measurement error and safety. And finally, write your answer out in full.
It’s okay to use bullet points in your final answer. However, since exam boards typically assess your communication skills in these questions, you’ll need to write at least some full sentences to score full marks. Keep your sentences short, relevant and clear.
Check the question again after you’ve finished it
It’s worth spending 20 seconds reading the question again after you’ve finished your answer to check you’ve answered all aspects.
If you were asked to make a calculation and draw a conclusion based on the result, it would be easy, under exam pressure, to finish the calculation and forget that you were supposed to draw a conclusion! By checking the question at the end, you can ensure you haven’t missed any parts out.
Skip questions you can’t answer
If you’re stuck, or a question is asking for facts you can’t remember, skip it. It’s better to answer questions according to your strengths than to waste time on questions you’re not getting anywhere with.
If you have time to go back to this question later, your subconscious might have been mulling it over and deliver the key insight you need.
If you skipped multiple choice questions and time is running out at the end of the exam, guess them! You might get some zero-effort marks in the final seconds.
Check your work at the end
If you’ve completed the exam and you have time at the end, it’s definitely worth checking your work carefully. Is your algebra accurate? Have you given your answers in the correct units? Do your explanations, descriptions and conclusions make sense? Did you answer all aspects of the question?
By spotting and correcting errors, you might be able to top up your marks and—you never know—push yourself over a grade boundary!
Conclusion
I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 top tips on exam technique!
Here’s a bonus tip: make sure you get enough sleep during the exam period—there comes a point when the best preparation is a good night’s sleep :)
Good luck, and happy studying!
