Preparing for the UTME exam can be a challenging task, but with the right strategies, you can improve your chances of success.
In this blog post, we will discuss eight essential tips to help you navigate the exam day smoothly and maximize your performance.
Whether you’re a first-time test taker or looking to improve your previous score, these tips will guide you through the process.
- Fill in the necessary details accurately: Before starting the exam, ensure that you provide all the required information correctly. This may include your registration number or other personal details. Double-check the auto-generated information on the screen to make sure it matches your registration details. This step is crucial to avoid any mix-ups or complications during the exam.
- Carefully read and follow instructions: Take the time to read and understand all the instructions presented on the computer screen. These instructions serve as guidelines for how to proceed with answering the questions. Following them accurately is vital to ensure a smooth exam experience and avoid any unnecessary issues.
- Plan your time allocation: Given the time constraints of the UTME exam, it is crucial to plan how much time you will allocate to each subject. JAMB provides two hours for the exam, with specific question distributions. Allocate your time wisely to ensure you can cover all subjects adequately. Consider starting with the Use of English paper, as it is often easier to finish quickly. This approach will boost your confidence and give you more time for other subjects.
- Learn keyboard shortcuts for faster answering: To answer questions efficiently, familiarize yourself with the keyboard shortcuts provided. These shortcuts allow you to select options quickly. For example, pressing ‘A’ selects option A, ‘B’ selects option B, and so on. Understanding these shortcuts will save you time and enable smoother navigation throughout the exam.
- Begin with the Use of English paper: If permitted or not, it is advisable to start with the Use of English paper for around thirty to forty minutes. This subject is often easier and can be completed quickly. By starting with a subject you are confident in, you build momentum and boost your confidence for the rest of the exam.
- Time management: Spend a maximum of one minute per question: Efficient time management is essential during the exam. While some questions may require more time, avoid spending more than a minute on any single question. Keep an eye on the countdown timer displayed on the screen. If you find a question taking longer than expected, make an educated guess based on the information you have. Remember, speed and accuracy are both crucial in exams.
- Answer every question as you encounter them: In a computer-based exam like JAMB CBT, you can only see one question at a time on the screen. Answer each question as you encounter it, whether you are sure of the answer or not. Unlike paper exams where you can easily identify and skip difficult questions, you cannot do the same here. Leaving questions unanswered reduces your chances of scoring well since you may not have time to go back to them later.
- Logical guessing by elimination: When faced with questions you are unsure about, it is best to make logical guesses by eliminating incorrect options. Read the question carefully and eliminate any options that are clearly incorrect. This strategy increases the probability of choosing the correct answer, even in cases where the options may appear similar. Logical guessing can significantly improve your chances of scoring points on challenging questions.
Conclusion
By following these eight tips, you can enhance your performance on the UTME exam day.
Remember to accurately fill in your details, carefully read instructions, plan your time allocation, utilize keyboard shortcuts, start with the Use of English paper, manage your time effectively, answer every question as you encounter them, and make logical guesses when unsure.
With preparation, practice, and these strategies, you can approach the exam with confidence and increase your chances of success. Good luck!