Slaying that GCE Exam – E-Math and A-Math

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The GCE Math exams can be stressful, but with the right strategies, you can confidently tackle challenging math questions precisely. Whether taking the GCE O Levels or the GCE N Levels, these small yet significant tips will be incredibly helpful *during* the Maths exam.

1. Start Strong With A Quick Review

To succeed in the exam, starting on the right foot is crucial. Take five to ten minutes to review each section and its questions quickly. Doing this can help you identify the questions you may have difficulty with. However, keep going.

Remember, success is not just about writing fast but also about thinking strategically. Aim to spend 30% of the time thinking and 70% writing. By following this approach, you can manage your time more effectively and increase your chances of success. Doing so can improve your time management and increase your chances of doing well in the exam.

2. Annotate by Highlighting Keywords and Numbers

Underline or circle essential keywords and numbers. When doing so, use a pencil to keep your work neat and allow for easy corrections with an eraser should you make a mistake.

When you annotate and highlight crucial keywords and numerical figures, we recommend you use a pencil to maintain a neat presentation and to ensure you allow for easy correction with an eraser.

3. Double-check Your Answers

When solving any math problem, it is essential to show every step. After completing the problem, take a moment to review your work carefully for any careless errors, such as placing a decimal in the wrong location or omitting a digit. Double-check that you have written your final answer correctly to avoid losing marks.

If you use a calculator, re-enter your calculations to avoid accidentally pushing the wrong button twice in a row. Careless mistakes can cost you marks, which could prevent you from moving to the next higher grade level.

4. Ensure the Use of Correct Rounding

Always follow the rounding guidelines provided in each question. If the question does not explicitly state the required level of rounding, default to using three significant figures or one decimal place for angles measured in degrees.

It is important to note that using a rounded answer from a previous part to answer the next part of the question can lead to inaccuracies. Therefore, always utilise the long decimal answer for precision and accuracy.

5. Handwriting and Organisation Is King

When marking an exam paper, the exam markers are usually paid per paper and have much to go through. If they encounter disorganized and illegible handwriting, they are more likely to assume that the student might not have understood the question and will give it a quick mark before moving on.

Therefore, ensuring that your work is legible and organized is essential. Working down the page instead of across it and ensuring that one point leads to another can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure your exam paper receives the attention it deserves.

To do well in your GCE Math exams, be it E-Math or A-Math, you’ll need strong mathematical skills and effective strategies. Quick review, critical information annotation, double-checking your work, adhering to proper rounding, and maintaining neat and organized handwriting are the keys to your success. And remember, exam results often exceed your expectations, so stay positive and keep pushing forward.

Wishing all of you the best of luck!

– Teacher HS Lee

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