How to crack IB Exams

People often ask me how I was able to earn a 42 IB diploma grade, and after answering that question several times, I can admit that persuading people that I didn't do something unusual or extra than the majority of students during their IB journey is often difficult. With the May 2017 exams approaching, here are six tips for IB students who will be putting their expertise and skills to the test in the coming weeks. Baccalaureate Physics Preparation Online Courses for IB students.

1. Plan a schedule and be organized

Any IB student or graduate would tell you that being prepared is the most valuable thing they've learned during their journey. Being prepared allows you to see things more plainly, bring things into context, and reach deadlines more effectively. You should add this expertise to your exam schedule now that you've perfected it after submitting your internal tests and essays.

Plan a schedule that allows you to devote the appropriate amount of time to each subject; not every subject requires the same level of scheduling, so know which subjects you need to prioritize and which ones can take up the most time in your schedule. Some people like to begin studying for their exams first, while others choose to begin studying for their exams last and finish with the ones before, so figure out which form you are and stick to a routine that you won't have to alter often.

2. Apply the knowledge, practice practice and practice

Now isn't the time to research any subject as though it's the first time you've ever studied it! Trust yourself and believe that you have studied the topics well enough to do a brief overview covering all topics in the subjects and concentrating only on the ones on which you are rusty. If you have already completed the Mock examinations, review the reviews and determine which areas you do need to work on.

Increase the amount of time you spend solving test papers, use the Question bank, and make sure you solve each paper as if you were solving it in a real external exam, with time constraints and tools allowed to bring in for that exam, such as a subject guide or a calculator. Exam practice helps you more comfortable with the format of questions, particularly because the IB exam style is always the same, and it also makes you faster at solving, ensuring that you have the time management skills necessary to complete a paper in a short amount of time.

3. Manage your time effectively, in and out of exams

Be sure to arrange short breaks in between research blocks before tests, as your mind can't concentrate over long periods of time, and you'll need to de-stress and clear your mind every couple of hours to refocus and remember details. Establish a time limit for your break; a ten-minute break every 90 minutes or 2 hours is appropriate. Using it to do something that can re-energize you without causing you to procrastinate or lose time, such as running or taking a short stroll, so you should return to studying right after your break with no reasons for putting it off or worrying over how much time you have left.

During tests, it is also important and try to rest the night before your test; you can do a brief analysis or solve any problems, so make sure you get enough sleep the night before and have a decent breakfast before leaving for your exam the next morning, as this will aid you in focusing effectively.

4. Go offline while studying

I cannot emphasize sufficiently how important it is to turn off your phone, television, and other social media accounts that can interrupt you when learning. You may believe that responding quickly to a WhatsApp group chat or checking your Instagram/Facebook account would not hurt you, but it will only waste hours that could be spent on productive non-distracted studying.

This does not mean you can go offline before your tests are over; instead, make sure you log in after you've finished practicing for the day or after your breaks. Mind that your TV shows, programs, and movies can wait; with today's technology, you can quickly repeat any of them as many times as you want until your exams are over.

5. Take it one exam at a time

Give each exam paper its own amount of attention, and don't spend so much time thinking about an exam you thought you didn't do well on. While it's natural to be disappointed when you don't perform well on one paper or topic, you should not let this overtake your time and effort; you'll always have other exams to focus on. Keep yourself inspired to give it your all; after all, your score will not be entirely determined on your external examinations; you will also be graded on your internal tests.

6. Enjoy the experience and learn something out of it

Exam time is physically and emotionally taxing, so take it easy and enjoy it when you can; after all, it is an opportunity and a stage in your life. Trust yourself and your abilities; you've been taking exams for years, and while these exams are important for the majority of students who depend on their grades to gain entry to university, they're no different from any other test you've taken before. Whatever the outcome, be proud of what you've accomplished; after all, the IB curriculum is designed to prepare you for life, not just for your external exams.

Wishing all May 2021 candidates the best of luck in their upcoming IB examinations.