"I knew the content but I ran out of time...” – How to improve exam time management.

Exams can be a stressful time for students, not only because of the pressure to perform well, but also because of the limited time allocated to complete them. It's quite common to hear students lament, "I knew the content, but I ran out of time." If this resonates with you, you're not alone, and it's a clear sign that you need some advice on how to improve your exam time management skills. Here are 5 practical tips to help you understand how to deal with time pressure in your exams.

#1 - Read and Plan First

Before you dive into answering the questions, take some time to carefully read and highlight the questions. Create a rough plan based on what the question requires and refer back to it as you write. This initial planning stage can help you organize your thoughts and ensure that you don't miss any important points.

#2 - Practice Under Timed Conditions

The best way to get comfortable with the pressure of exam conditions is to practice under timed conditions. This involves setting a timer and attempting to solve questions within a specific period. This method not only familiarises you with the pressure of timed exams but also allows you to gauge your speed and identify areas where you need to improve.

"Being too tired or stressed on the exam day might reduce by 10 per cent your capacity to turn any of your revision into an answer!" – University of Oxford

#3 - Prioritise

Start with the questions you are most confident about. This strategy does two things: it boosts your confidence and saves time for more challenging questions later. By answering the easier questions first, you'll be able to accumulate points quickly while warming up your brain for the tougher tasks ahead.

#4 - Check the Clock

It's important to keep an eye on the clock as you go through the exam. Periodically checking how much time you have left allows you to adjust your pace accordingly. If you realize you're spending too much time on a particular question, you may need to move on and come back to it later if time allows.

#5 - Stay Calm

Exam anxiety is a common issue among students, and it can significantly affect your performance. Anxiety can waste precious time as you may find it hard to focus and make decisions. Remember to take deep breaths, stay focused, and remain calm throughout the exam. This will help you think clearly and make the most of your time.

You've got this!

By implementing these strategies, you'll be well on your way to improving your exam time management skills. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep practicing these strategies until they become second nature. For more tips on exam preparation and study strategies, follow @morleymaytuition.