(i) Read your Question Paper carefully:
Before you begin problem solving, I strongly recommend reading all questions carefully. Spend at least 5 minutes on reading over the exam. Doing so, you get an idea about how well are you going to perform. If the questions seem to be easy, then you can have a sigh of relief and smile. If the questions appear to be too difficult, please proceed to reading tip (ii).
(ii) Move from easy to difficult:
I can break this process into three phases. Always start with questions that can be answered easily. In the second phase, start attempting questions that are relatively difficult for you. Lastly, work on those that are most difficult. Following this strategy efficiently leads to better time management
(iii) Do not leave any question unattempted:
This is very important. At times, students tend to skip questions when they don’t know what to write and leave it blank. If you run into this type of scenario, try your best and write something you can. As discussed in tip (ii), work on these tough questions in phase 3.
It really depends on your instructor how he/ she evaluates your answer sheet. If by any chance you write something related to the correct solution, then you can be given partial credit. Use your imagination and try to link the problem with topics you have studied. If you feel that the problem is related to a particular theorem then don’t hesitate to write the statement of the theorem. Then, try to approach to solution. Getting some points is better than nothing.
(iv) Focus on your answer sheet:
Students often start looking to their left and right and get distracted. Do not worry about others and their reactions upon receiving the exam. Be focused and start reading as soon as you receive the exam.
Also, if your friends or classmates are using a lots of blank sheets to work on problems, it does not mean that they know more than you. Relax, do not get carried away with this complex.
(v) Manage Time:
I have seen students start off slow towards the beginning. Towards the end, they realize they’re short on time and tend to leave questions unanswered and begin to panic. Pace yourself confidently and utilize time for all questions.
(vi) 15 minutes window for revision:
You should have at least 15 minutes in the end to go over your answers. You might even find calculation mistakes during revision. Make sure that you have not missed any question.
If you feel that I have missed anything, please feel free to add to this list or shoot me a message with your concerns.
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