How to Ace January Modules

1. The first and most obvious, is to have revised. Make sure you know the content of the exam like the back of your hand, or, like one of my CGP revision books states, 'like you know your own navel'.

2. Know the exam techniques for each exam. From personal experience; don't waste time in the exam writing about things that won't be given credit for - know what examiners are looking for and make sure you do just that! If the question only asks for a definition (as one of my Economics units does) do not  write a huge paragraph, sometimes a few lines/sentences will do, so check the mark scheme - they can be found online or with your teachers.

3. Have a look at an actual exam paper and familiarise yourself with the layout. There's nothing like sitting in an exam room panicking that the topic you've learnt isn't the first question on the first page when you turn over. Check where abouts your topics will be (this will also stop you from wasting time) and make sure you answer the right questions as well as all questions you should be answering. 

4. Look at an answer book and try doing a past paper with it. I can't remember where answers for GCSE were written in, but as I've found with Maths modules, there are boxes for answers. Its a good idea to try doing a question in them - usually they are tiny and if you have giant handwriting like me, its a pain to fit it all in! Remember, you can ask for extra paper/an additional book and make sure you declare any extra paper you have used on the front of the answer book.

5. Make sure you have enough black Biros to last an exam. I doubt there would be anything worst than finding your pen had run out and you didn't have another. You may be able to ask an invigilator, but if yours are anything like the ones at my school, they take forever and its much quicker if you have a few spares! (I literally have about 6/7 in my pencil case...) If you're doing a Maths/Economics/Science/anything where you'll need a calculator - it might be a good idea to take a spare or one with a new-ish battery, but remember not to take the lid in! 

6. A watch is always a good idea in an exam, particularly if you're eyesight is bad - like mine! - and you end up at the back of the exam room. Also, check how long each module lasts and do some timed past papers - practise makes perfect!

7. Last, but not least, always always always include working out! You will get marks for it so make sure you do any working out in the answer book and not on the question paper!


I hope this was useful to some of you! Comment below with your tips for January modules and good luck to all those doing exams :)


Clara