Technique in the room.
WHAT TO DO FIRST
Read every question before writing anything.
WHY
So you can allocate time and choose well.
WHAT TO ALLOCATE
Time per question, proportionate to marks.
WHY THAT MATTERS MOST
Running out of time on the last question loses more marks than imperfect answers elsewhere.
WHAT TO DO WITH EACH QUESTION
Identify exactly what is asked
Note the instruction word: discuss, compare, evaluate, explain
Plan briefly before writing
WHY THE INSTRUCTION WORD
Describing when asked to evaluate loses most of the marks.
WHAT TO WRITE FIRST
A brief plan, in the margin or at the top.
WHY
It prevents wandering, and earns credit even if you run short.
WHAT TO DO IF SHORT OF TIME
Write in note form rather than not at all.
WHY
Points earn marks; prose does not, by itself.
WHAT TO DO IF STUCK
Move on, and return.
WHAT TO LEAVE TIME FOR
Checking you answered what was asked.
WHAT TO NEVER DO
Answer the question you hoped for.
