REVISION AND EXAMINATION TECHNIQUE

Preparing for the Examination

1.     Revise the following:

a)     Examination of key issues / possible question areas – the implications and options available.

b)    Examination technique – see below.

2.     Know the number and structure of questions and time limit.  (Refer to past papers if available). 

• Total time allowed: 1 hour.  Total marks available: 53.
• All questions are compulsory and based on the pre-released case study.
• Up to 3 marks awarded for quality of written communication.

3.     Know how you are assessed.  Ensure full familiarity with assessment objectives (knowledge and understanding, application, analysis, evaluation) and the levels of response mark scheme.

4.     Practice doing questions in a set time limit.  This is absolutely essential.  Many students have the knowledge and ability to secure high grades but fail due to lack of time.  DO NOT let this happen to you – PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT!

During the Examination

1.    Read through the entire question paper at least twice.

2.    Work out approximate timings for each question.  This should be based on the number of marks per question and the total time allowed.  With questions worth 8 or more marks, you must allow a few minutes to plan.  Planning will help to keep your answers to the point, logical, and will help you to prioritise - all essential to secure high grades (refer to point 4 below).

3.    Answer the question you find the easiest first.  (This will help build up your confidence).

4.    When answering questions, particularly those carrying high (8 or more) marks:

a)     Brainstorm the relevant points and write these down in rough in the form of a spider diagram.  Write these directly on your question paper – the examiner will review any rough notes made if you run out of time.

b)    Prioritise the order in which the above points will be discussed.  Write a number next to each point in the order that you intend to discuss them.

c)     Introduce your answer - explain how you intend to answer the question, show that you have understood the question (2 to 3 sentences max).

d)    Discuss the points you wish to raise.  Include the possible advantages or disadvantages and / or the implications/impact/effect of current/proposed activities/your suggestions on the case study business.  Try to conclude each question eg by stating what is particularly important / relevant / the most appropriate option and why.  Consider the short and long-term wherever possible.

e)     Relate all answers to the question set, possible objectives of the case study business, the resources available and the likelihood of success (taking into account the strengths and weaknesses of the business, and opportunities and threats), as applicable.

5.    Keep within the time allowed – if you start to run over time on one question stop and come back to it at the end.  (Students usually gain the most marks in the first part of their answer).

6.    Regularly read through your work (not just at the end).  Firstly, to check all points make sense and directly relate to the question set.  (Many students, once they start writing, stray from the original question and this wastes valuable time).  Secondly, to check for spelling, punctuation and grammatical areas – marks are awarded for quality of written communication. 

BEST OF LUCK BUT REMEMBER - FAIL TO PREPARE, PREPARE TO FAIL!