WAEC SCHOOL EXAM: 8 Tips on How to pass Mathematics Exam

Mathematics is the science that deals with the logic of shape, quantity and arrangement. Math is all around us, in everything we do. It is the building block for everything in our daily lives, including mobile devices, architecture (ancient and modern), art, money, engineering, and even sports.

How to study to pass the examination?

Practice makes perfect when it comes to mathematics - that’s why your teacher assigns so many tedious homework problems! Many people try to study for mathematics by simply memorizing formulas and equations the way they would memorize facts and dates. While knowing formulas and equations is important, the best way to learn them is by using them. Start studying early, do your homework, and ask your teacher for help if you run into any issues.

I understand that the Corona virus pandemic has caused a lot of setback as schools were under lockdown for more than five months, yet the two weeks revisional classes might not be enough. Notwithstanding, you must pass the examination or face the stress again in the future trying to rewrite same examination or its likes.

Please take note of the following:

1. The exam syllabus is a continuous one you are familiar with it already. Use it as a guide don't forget to note the following topics, doing so will lead you to success - Indices and Logarithms, Probability, Trigonometry Ratios, Quadratic Equations, Simultaneous Equation, Calculus, Integration, Statistics ( how to compute - mean, median, mode, standard deviation, percentile, quartile and inter quartile range), Set, Surd, Algebra, and Simple interest.

2. Look over your class notes. As a test approaches, review your notes for the entire unit or chapter more thoroughly. Pay special attention to the example problems the teacher provided in class, since these will help break down how a given procedure or formula works. If you don't have any class notes, ask your classmate for notes.

3. Do problems similar to those that were assigned for homework. Suppose you were assigned odd numbers for homework because the even numbers’ answers are in the back of the book. Work on those even-numbered problems, then check your answers to see where your strengths and weaknesses are. Ask your teacher if your math book has an online website. Sometimes online textbooks can help by providing quizzes and additional instructional material.

4. Join a study group. Different people see concepts in different ways. Something that you have difficulty understanding may come easily to a study partner. If everyone in the group is confused about something, ask the teacher for help. You could meet once or twice a week in person, talk over the phone, or chat online.

5. Have someone make up practice problems for you. If you’re in a study group, you can create and exchange practice tests for each other. Ask a family member or someone in your class to work on practice examples together. If your textbook has a website, see if you can download practice exams. Give yourself a time limit when taking a practice test to simulate the real thing.

6. Reward yourself for studying hard. You deserve a break after a few hours of intense studying! Figure out some way to treat yourself after studying hard to help motivate yourself. For example, you could have a candy bar, go on a bike ride, play a game for 20 minutes, or do another low-key activity you enjoy.

7. Rest and eat well just before the exam. Try not to be stressed as the exam approaches. Get a good night’s sleep the night before the exam. Have a full breakfast that morning and, if the test is later in the day, a good lunch. Try having a light, healthy snack, like almonds. This will help give your brain a little more fuel before the test.

8. Never ever have it in mind to cheat. Cheating during examination will not allow you to succeed even if you where not caught doing so. Within yourself the guilt will not allow you to progress. But how are you sure you will not be caught. To avoid the embarrassment, do the needful now. Ready and Study hard!