Discover expert-backed strategies on whats to do in CAIE exams for A*. From question analysis to smart time management, master the techniques that top students use.
Know the Exam Format Inside Out
One of the first steps toward an A* in CAIE exams is mastering the exam structure.
What You Should Know:
Paper types: Know which papers you’re sitting (e.g., Paper 1, 2, 3 or alternative to practical).
Duration and mark allocation: Understand how much time and marks each section carries.
Syllabus alignment: Questions are directly tied to the syllabus. Use it as a checklist.
📌 Tip: Study the Assessment Objectives (AOs) listed in the syllabus — they guide what examiners are looking for.
Read the Questions Carefully
Misreading a question can cost you the A*.
How to Read Right:
Identify command words: e.g., “describe,” “explain,” “compare,” “evaluate.”
Look for key limitations: e.g., “Give two reasons,” or “using the graph.”
Underline essential parts of long questions.
📌 Tip: Misinterpretation is one of the most common A-grade killers.
Plan Before You Answer
Especially for long-answer or essay questions, planning is essential.
Simple Planning Tricks:
Use bullet points or a mini-outline for essays.
Jot down formulas or keywords you need.
Mentally allocate time per section based on marks.
Answer According to the Mark Scheme
A* answers match what’s expected in the CAIE mark schemes.
What Examiners Want:
To-the-point answers without fluff.
Use of specific terms and accurate calculations.
Structuring answers logically, especially in Science and English.
📘 Tip: Practice marking your own past papers using the official schemes to internalize patterns.
Use Keywords the Examiner Expects
Examiners have specific vocabulary in mind.
Use the Language of the Subject:
In Chemistry: use terms like “ionic bonding,” “endothermic,” “oxidation.”
In Math: always show working and units.
In English: use transition words, and formal tone in directed writing.
📌 Tip: Cambridge Classroom’s solved past papers highlight these keywords in sample answers.
Manage Time Smartly in Each Paper
An A* student knows when to move on or dig deep.
Practical Time Management:
Use the 1 mark = 1.2 minutes rule.
Start with easier questions to build momentum.
Flag hard questions and return to them later.
Review and Double Check Answers
Leave time at the end to proofread.
Things to Look For:
Calculation mistakes in Math and Science.
Spelling, grammar, and punctuation in English.
Missing labels on diagrams or graphs.
Write Neatly and Clearly
Examiners must read and understand your answers easily.
Clarity Is Key:
Use black or blue ink only.
Underline headings, label diagrams.
Leave space between answers.
📌 Tip: Poor presentation can cost marks even with the right answer.
Stay Calm and Focused
Stress leads to blank-outs and panic.
Stay Zen in the Exam Hall:
Use deep breathing to reduce tension.
Sip water quietly during breaks.
Skip questions you don’t know — return later.
Prioritize High-Weightage Questions
Some questions carry major chunks of marks.
Target the Big Ones First:
Always attempt essay-type questions.
In MCQs, don’t spend more than 30 seconds per question on the first run.
Be Ready for Practical-Based Questions
If you’re taking Sciences, practical skills matter even in theory papers.
What to Prepare For:
Identifying apparatus and drawing setup diagrams.
Interpreting results and making conclusions.
Common experiments like titration, electrolysis, distillation.
🧪 Review Cambridge Classroom’s practical preparation guides.
Use Allotted Reading Time Wisely
If your paper has reading time, use it to strategize.
What to Do:
Read through questions once.
Highlight key terms.
Visualize answers or setups (for practical questions).
Don’t Leave Any Question Blank
Even a partial answer can earn you marks.
Smart Guessing Strategies:
In MCQs, eliminate wrong options first.
In structured answers, write what you know.
Use logic and prior knowledge to deduce unfamiliar terms.
Learn From Past Paper Trends
CAIE tends to recycle concepts, even if not questions.
Track the Patterns:
Make a list of most-repeated questions.
Focus revision around those areas.
Download examiner reports for hidden insights.
📘 Join structured courses at Cambridge Classroom to study these trends in a guided way.
FAQs About Exam-Day Best Practices
Q1: What time should I arrive for the exam?
At least 45 minutes early to settle nerves and avoid last-minute stress.
Q2: What should I bring?
Essential stationery, transparent water bottle, valid ID, and calculator (if allowed).
Q3: Should I write everything I know in essays?
No. Stick to relevant points. Quality > quantity.
Q4: Can I use a highlighter in the answer sheet?
No. Only black/blue pen and pencil. Highlighting is not allowed.
Q5: What if I fall short on time?
Use bullet points in last questions. Cover keywords to get partial marks.
Q6: Can I ask the invigilator for clarification?
Only if there’s a printing issue — they can’t explain content.
Final Thoughts: A* Is Earned With Precision
Getting an A* in CAIE exams is not about perfection — it’s about precision, consistency, and smart exam behavior. You’ve worked hard to prepare; now it’s time to perform smartly in the exam hall.
🎓 Stay focused, manage your time, and trust your training. You’ve got this!
