On How to Ace Your International Examinations
by Angela Winnie Anggraeni
Top in Indonesia for Cambridge ESL Speaking Endorsement Awardee
Suppose you are about to take international examinations such as the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) course or the IB Diploma Programme Examinations. In that case, there are several things you need to consider before taking the final exams. First, decide which exam you want to take – is it the core or extended test for the IGCSE, or the Higher or Standard Levels for the IBDP? To make an informed decision, it’s crucial to consult with your parents and teachers to identify your interests, strengths, weaknesses, and future goals.
You might have received practice materials like worksheets or mock exams from your teachers, which contain sample questions you should pay attention to. Sometimes, the questions may seem confusing due to the wording, so read them carefully. For instance, during my English class, we received practice papers for reading comprehension, short essays, and listening.
Preparation is key, so studying past papers from previous years is essential. You can find sources for past papers online, including on the official website and discussion forums. However, it is critical to verify the answers and do additional research. If you find a topic challenging to understand, you can search for videos on YouTube for simpler explanations.
On the exam day, it is crucial to remain calm and relaxed to avoid getting distracted. Carefully read the questions to include all useful information, such as keywords or answers to other questions.
Preparing for an exam is always challenging, but with hard work and determination, success can be achieved.
