Exam success isn’t only about knowledge—it’s also about strategy. Many students lose marks because they don’t know how to approach the paper effectively. One powerful method is tackling the toughest questions first.

Why Start with Hard Questions?

Exams are about maximising marks, not answering in order. By starting with higher-value or challenging questions, students can secure marks while their minds are fresh. This prevents the common mistake of running out of time at the end.

Reduces Exam Anxiety

Tackling difficult questions first builds confidence. Once a student knows they’ve addressed the toughest problems, the rest of the paper feels more manageable.

Identifies Areas of Weakness Early

By approaching challenging questions upfront, students quickly see where they need to allocate more focus and can adjust their strategy accordingly.

How to Train for This Strategy

• Practice timed mock exams with questions attempted in reverse order.
• Mark questions by value (e.g., 5-mark vs 1-mark) to see which should take priority.
• Develop time checks (e.g., “By 20 minutes in, I should have attempted all high-mark questions.”)

Final Thoughts

Exam technique is as important as knowledge. By teaching students to approach papers strategically—tackling high-value questions first—they can boost confidence, save time, and significantly improve their grades. At Owl Maths, we incorporate exam strategies into every lesson, ensuring students are prepared for both content and conditions.