Exam technique: don’t throw marks away
Loads of marks get lost by people who actually knew the physics. They answered a different question, forgot a unit or didn’t show their working. These are the easiest marks to win back.
1. Spot the command word
- State / give / name: a short answer. No explaining needed.
- Describe: say what happens.
- Explain: say why it happens. Use “because” or “so”.
- Calculate: numbers, working and a unit.
- Compare: say how both things are similar or different. Mention both!
- Evaluate: give points for and against, then a conclusion.
2. Look at the marks
3 marks usually means 3 separate points. And aim for about 1 minute per mark. If you’ve spent 5 minutes on a 2-mark question, move on and come back.
3. Calculations: show everything
- Write the equation first. That’s often a mark on its own.
- Convert units before you start: g → kg, km → m, minutes → seconds.
- Show your working. Wrong final answer? You can still get most of the marks.
- Finish with a unit. Every time.
4. 6-mark questions
- Jot 4 to 6 key points in the margin first.
- Put them in a sensible order (for a practical: what you’d do first, then next).
- Use proper physics words, not “it goes up”.
- Read it back. Did you answer what was actually asked?
💡 Read the question twice. Underline the key bits. Half of silly mistakes are misreading.
Use these on the site
- 6-mark questions (self-marking)
- Past papers with hints and mock exams for timed practice
- Equation sheet: know what’s on it, and what isn’t