The mode of writing exams is shifting to online from the traditional paper and pen format. This new mode of exams has many advantages, such as reducing print and paper costs, being highly customised, fully confidential and secure, so there are fewer chances of exam paper leakage.
However, it also comes with its own set of challenges for students such as adapting to a new way of writing exams, managing time and taking care of technical glitches. And, it requires adopting new strategies to perform well in these exams.
In this blog, we will explore some expert tips on how you can ace your online exams.
1. Understand The Exam Format
Before you start preparing for your exam, make sure that you know the exam format. Find out if it is multiple choice questions (MCQs) or essay-based format, or a combination of both.
Understanding the exam format will help you plan how much time should be spent on each section. This will avoid any exam day surprises.
You can ask your teacher or visit the specific course page to get details about how the online exam will be structured.
Be sure to check the number of questions, type of questions and the duration of your exam.
2. Prepare Using Mock Tests
One great way to prepare and practice for online exams is by taking mock tests. This will help you understand the exam structure clearly and get used to it.
A mock test can help simulate the exam environment so you can develop strategies on how you can approach the entire online exam system. By taking as many practice tests as possible, you can build the stamina and focus required to sit through and handle the real exam.
After completing each mock test, it is a good idea to review your results. Understand the areas you struggled in during the exam, and focus on revisiting those topics so you can improve upon them.
You will also benefit by timing yourself for each test so you can match the time restrictions of the actual exam and develop a rhythm for completing it on time.
3. Check Your Devices For Exam Readiness
Any technical problems on exam day can cause frustration and this can affect your performance in the online exam. Hence, it is important to check your devices one day before the exam.
Make sure you have a stable and reliable high-speed internet connection. You must also have a backup connection such as a mobile hotspot, in case of any issues with your internet.
In online exams, you will be required to turn on your camera to prevent malpractices. So, check whether the camera and microphone are working properly. You must ensure to update your browser and other necessary software to the latest version for security and smooth functioning.On the day of the exam, try to login at least 15-20 minutes early. You can use this extra time to check the internet speed, correct the brightness of the screen to your preference and stop all notifications to prevent any distractions while you take up the exam.
4. Ensure You Have The Right Exam Credentials
You must make sure you have the correct user ID and password to login to the exam portal. If you are writing the online exam at an exam centre, then it is mandatory to bring your hall ticket. Without this, you will not be allowed to enter the exam hall.
If you are taking the exam from your home, then login credentials will be enough to access the exam portal. To see whether you are able to login smoothly, you can check by entering your login details one day prior to the exam day. This will ensure you have the correct login information.
To keep the credentials secure, you can write it down in a safe and accessible place or even use a trustworthy password manager.
Make note of the contact information of tech support and keep it handy so you can get help with any issues related to logging in.
5. Read Instructions Clearly
One of the biggest mistakes you can make before an online exam is not reading the instructions properly. This can lead to errors which could have been avoided in the first place.
Before you begin your exam, you must read the instructions at least twice to help you understand the requirements of each section properly. You must also look out for details on how to navigate the exam platform and submit your answers correctly.
In case any of the instructions are unclear, don’t hesitate to ask the exam invigilator for clarification.
6. Manage Your Time During Exam
Good time management skills can be a life-saver, especially during online exams. Managing time is all the more important when you are taking online tests from home where there are a lot of distractions.
Divide the entire exam time into sections and use time alerts to keep track of how much time you are spending on each section. And, don’t be afraid to skip questions that are halting your progress and revisit them later.
Have an eye on the clock and try to finish the exam at least 5 minutes before time. This will leave enough time for reviewing your answers.
7. Ensure To Save Each Answer
In online exams, you are often required to save your answers as you go. Most exam portals don’t save the answers automatically. Hence, it is important that you manually save your work.
Make it a habit to click the save button as you complete each question. This way you will not lose your progress in case of any issues with your internet connection.
Ensure to always review the answers before you submit. The submission part is equally as important as the exam itself. So, it is crucial to not ignore this final part of your online exam.
Before you hit the submit button, you must double-check whether all your responses are saved or not. You can also check if you have correctly followed any final instructions of the exam. Remember, once you submit, you can’t go back. So, review everything before submitting.
Conclusion
Online exams are a new way of conducting formal examinations. Succeeding in online exams requires more than just knowing the subject matter. It needs focus, preparation and a strategic approach to online test taking.
By familiarising with the exam format, taking mock tests, making your device exam ready and developing time management skills, you can ace the online exam with confidence.
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