Before you start answering any questions, read the instructions on the question paper carefully. Understand the marking scheme, word limits, and any specific guidelines provided.
Take a quick glance at the entire question paper. This will give you an idea of the types of questions and their difficulty levels. Mentally allocate time based on the complexity of each section.
Divide the available time by the number of sections or questions in the paper. This will give you a rough idea of how much time you can spend on each section. Prioritize sections you are more confident about.
Decide which sections or questions you'll tackle first. It's usually a good idea to start with the questions you're most comfortable with. This boosts your confidence and helps you gain momentum.
Assign specific time limits to each question or group of questions. For example, if you have 90 minutes and 9 questions, aim to spend roughly 10 minutes on each question. Use a timer or the clock in the exam room to stay on track.
While it's important to follow your time allocations, be flexible if you're stuck on a particular question. If you're spending more time than planned, make a decision to move on and come back to it later.
If a question requires a longer answer, briefly outline your response before diving into writing. This helps ensure that you cover all the key points and prevents you from spending too much time on one question.
If you're unsure about an answer or running out of time, leave space and flag the question. Return to it if you have time at the end.
If you find yourself spending too much time on a single question, remind yourself to move on. Sometimes your initial instinct is correct, and overthinking can waste precious time.