Allocate exam time by marks after reading the paper’s instructions. Equal time per question only makes sense when the required questions have comparable marks and demands.
Read before calculating
Check how many questions you must answer, whether any section is compulsory and whether there are separate answer-book rules. A well-timed answer to the wrong selection can still lose marks.
Set aside a realistic reading and checking buffer, then divide the remaining working time by the marks you must attempt.
Worked example
For an illustrative 120-minute paper requiring 60 marks of answers, suppose you reserve 10 minutes for reading and final checking. That leaves 110 working minutes, or about 1.83 minutes per mark.
A 10-mark question would receive roughly 18 minutes, and a 20-mark question about 37 minutes. These are planning guides, not a guarantee that every part needs exactly that long.
Write small target finish times beside your chosen questions. This makes it easier to notice when one answer is consuming time intended for the rest of the paper.
Use the marks to shape the answer
For a short question, answer directly. For a longer analytical question, allow time for explanation, evidence and structure. In a calculation, show relevant working where the assessment permits it rather than leaving only an unexplained number.
If you become stuck, record the useful work you can do and move on when appropriate. Return later if time remains.
Should I always answer the easiest question first?
Follow the paper’s order rules. Where choice is allowed, consider a sequence that builds confidence without ignoring a compulsory section.
What should the final check cover?
Question numbering, required sections, units, labels and whether you answered the actual instruction. Keep any permitted identification details correct.
How can I practise this?
Use a legitimate past paper with the same duration and mark structure. Compare your actual timing with the plan and adjust before the real assessment.
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