Exam Tips: Why the First 15 Minutes of an Exam Can Make or Break Your Score

Kokila Chokkanathan
Many students underestimate the impact of the first 15 minutes in an exam hall. How you start can set the tone for the rest of your test, affecting accuracy, confidence, and speed. Here’s how to make every second count.

⏱ 1. Calm Your Mind Before You Begin

The first few minutes can either set you up for success or stress you out. Take a deep breath, close your eyes for 5–10 seconds, and visualize yourself answering questions calmly.
Tip: Avoid last-minute panic over formulas or notes — your brain works best when calm.

📖 2. Scan the Entire Question Paper

Instead of diving straight in, spend 2–3 minutes reading all questions. Identify:

  • Easy questions you can answer quickly
  • Questions with high marks
  • Questions that might take longer
Why: It prevents wasting time on tricky questions early and helps you plan your strategy effectively.

✍ 3. Start With Questions You Know Well

Begin with questions you’re confident about.
Benefits:

  • Boosts confidence
  • Secures marks quickly
  • Reduces exam anxiety
Tip: Mark tougher questions to return to later — don’t get stuck at the start.

🧠 4. Organize Your Time Mentally

The first 15 minutes are perfect for mental time allocation. Decide:

  • How long to spend per section
  • Buffer time for review
  • Priority order of questions
Tip: Stick to your plan to avoid rushing in the final minutes.

🔍 5. read Instructions Carefully

Many students lose marks due to misreading instructions.

  • Check if it’s multiple-choice, short-answer, or numerical
  • Look for negative marking rules
  • Confirm total marks per question
Why: A small oversight early can cost you heavily later.

💡 6. Quick Mental Checks Before Writing

Before writing answers:

  • Ensure your calculator, pen, or rough sheet is ready
  • Mentally recall key formulas or definitions
  • Keep your mind focused on accuracy over speed initially
Tip: First 15 minutes are more about setting the foundation than finishing questions.

🏆 7. Confidence Sets the Tone

How you start an exam often affects your entire performance. students who use the first 15 minutes strategically tend to:

  • Stay calmer
  • Work faster and smarter
  • Make fewer careless mistakes
Remember: A strong start is a psychological edge over the exam clock.

Bottom Line

The first 15 minutes of an exam are crucial — plan, breathe, and strategize. Skipping this step can lead to mistakes, lost marks, and unnecessary stress. Start smart, and you’ll likely finish strong.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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