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How to Excel in Written Exams: A Practical Guide for Students

When it comes to university life, written exams remain one of the most common ways lecturers assess your understanding and mastery of the subject. These exams come in various formats, and knowing what to expect—and how to prepare—can significantly improve your chances of success.

📘 Types of Written Exams

Before diving into strategies, let’s explore the types of written exams you might encounter:

  1. Traditional Closed Book Exams

    • Most common format.

    • Conducted in a specific time frame.

    • No books, no internet, no devices—just a calculator (if allowed) and your writing tools.

  2. Open Book Exams

    • You can refer to notes or textbooks during the exam.

    • Often more analytical or application-based questions.

  3. Take-Home Exams

    • You’re given questions and a set duration (sometimes 24–72 hours) to submit your answers.

    • Requires deep understanding, research, and proper referencing.

  4. Open-PC or Online Exams

    • May be time-limited or flexible.

    • Often involves typing answers or using specific platforms (like LMS or exam software).

  5. Flexible Time Exams

    • Designed with student convenience in mind, often used in online learning settings.

    • May give a window of several hours or days to attempt the paper.

Despite the format, preparation remains key. Here are tried-and-tested tips to help you shine, especially in traditional written exams.

✍️ Writing Tools: Stick to the Basics

  • Use a pen, not a pencil. Mistakes? Just strike through neatly and continue. No need for liquid paper.

  • Purple is not blue, and grey is not black! Please ensure you use either a blue or black ink pen when answering the exam. Choose an ink that is dark and clear enough to ensure good visibility for the examiner when marking your paper.

  • Ensure your handwriting is oval and clear—legibility matters.

  • Bring extra pens, rulers, and your calculator if allowed. Always be prepared.

🧠 Understand the Keywords – Bloom’s Taxonomy is Your Friend

Each question is designed with action verbs that hint at the expected depth of your answer. Pay close attention to words like:

  • List / Name – Just mention the items, no need to explain.

  • Describe – Give a detailed account.

  • Illustrate – Use examples or diagrams.

  • Elaborate – Go deeper into explanation.

  • Calculate – Expect numbers, formulae, and working steps.

  • Give examples – Always add relevant examples when requested.

Tip: The marks allocated often reflect how much detail is required—even if not explicitly stated. If a question is worth 5 marks and doesn’t mention “examples,” adding one can still earn you extra points.

📖 Study Smart, Not Just Hard

  • Memorisation is still crucial, especially for definitions, formulae, and key points.

  • But don’t rely on rote learning alone—understanding and application matter just as much.

  • Use the teaching plan or course outline to identify focus topics. Some lecturers may even give hints—pay close attention!

📚 Practice with Past Year Questions

  • Visit the library repository or online academic portal to find past year papers.

  • Even if the course code changes, the subject’s core usually remains.

  • Practicing real questions improves your time management, format familiarity, and confidence.

🚫 Avoid Cheating – Protect Your Integrity

Academic misconduct has serious consequences. Being caught cheating can result in:

  • Immediate exam failure,

  • Disciplinary actions, or even

  • A permanent record that may impact future opportunities.

Always do your best honestly. Your integrity matters more than any single exam.

😴 Rest, Eat, and Recharge

Your brain needs fuel and rest to perform:

  • Get enough sleep before the exam.

  • Eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated.

  • Avoid last-minute cramming—it increases anxiety more than retention.

🗓️ On Exam Day – Be Ready, Be Early
Set yourself up for a calm and focused start:

  • Arrive early at the exam hall to avoid panic and confusion.

  • Wear comfortable clothing—bring a sweater or jacket in case the air conditioner is too cold.

  • Eat a light meal a few hours before the exam to maintain energy and avoid urgent toilet needs.

  • Bring only necessary items—stationery, ID, and other allowed materials. Leave valuables at home if possible.

📝 During the Exam – Stay Focused and Alert
Make the most of your exam time with these smart practices:

  • Fill in your details on the answer booklet right away—matric number and required info only. Avoid writing your name unless instructed.

  • Listen carefully to vocal instructions and read all written instructions in the question paper.

  • Check that you received the correct paper for your course.

  • Allocate time wisely based on the marks for each question.

  • Start with the question you’re most confident in.

  • Leave time to review and check your answers before submitting.

  • Keep your phone and valuables safe—switch off devices, lock SIM cards, or leave them at home to avoid distractions and theft.

  • Avoid toilet breaks unless absolutely necessary. Go before entering the hall. Taking a break during the exam wastes time and may cause delays due to invigilation protocols.

💬 Closing Thoughts

Exams are not just a test of memory—they’re a test of preparation, understanding, and strategy. With the right approach and mindset, you can face any written exam with confidence. So prepare well, stay calm, and trust in your hard work.

Good luck, and may your efforts lead to success!