Case Studies

So, you’ve been to your tuition, you’ve read the advance information hundreds of times and the material to take with you into the exam...you’re ready, right? Well, nearly. In addition to the above guidelines, here are some more examination pitfalls to avoid.

3.2.2.5 Go to the right exam hall

Let us start with a simple one. Do not follow your friend to a certain hall just because you have both been there. The hall allocation system is not very sophisticated; the only factors taken into consideration are your seating choices. This is done on a session-by-session basis so always check how to find the address of your exam hall. Please do not be the person who arrives at an exam hall late although the invigilators will do their best to allow you to sit but it is a very stressful way to start the exam.

3.2.2.6 Read the instructions to candidates document

This is published on the IMM GSM website alongside your admission details. It is updated with every minor point but sometimes with something more important (like the change to black pens only).

 3.2.2.7 Hot (or cold) outside does not mean hot (or cold) inside

One of the major complaints received after examinations are the conditions within the exam. It is not uncommon to get ‘too hot’ and ‘too cold’ complaints from the same hall on the same day. If the temperature is 25 degrees outside on exam day wear a t-shirt, but remember that your exam hall will be chilly after sitting still for 4 hours. Equally, if it is cold and rainy do not assume heat inside the exam hall. The key is layers of clothes that you can add/take away as necessary.

3.2.2.8 Take your own clock

Although every hall should have at clock, you may not be able to see it easily from your seat. Take your own watch or clock, and set it so it matches the one used to time the exam. Timing is key in any exam and particularly the case study; it can become very stressful as the minutes tick by.

3.2.2.9 Do not expect it to be silent

Everyone wants exam halls with good transport links, easy parking and facilities nearby. This is usually in the middle of a town or city, probably in a hotel or conference centre, so it will not be completely silent. If you are easily distracted, take earplugs (preferably not ones linked together with string; invigilators might want to check them during the exam!)

3.2.2.10 Talk to the invigilators

Invigilators are there to make sure everything goes smoothly for you, as well as according to the rules. If you are uncomfortable with something (e.g. the sun is in your eyes, your desk is in a cold spot (the open window next to you is distracting you) stick your hand up and tell them. They might be able to do something – at least they can note it down should you need to apply for special consideration. If you do have a problem, such as illness or a disturbance during the exam (or just before it) you can request special consideration.

3.2.2.11 Listen to the invigilators

Do what the invigilators say. This is particularly important at the end of the exam, when you must submit your script, including pages numbers or your candidate number. The reason for this is that the invigilator may think that you are altering your answer, especially if they spot you at a distance.

3.2.2.12 Do not expect tutor sized desks

You know how big exam desks are, in the case study they are no larger than any other exam. Your exam pad, exam paper, advance information, lucky mascot and all your preparation notes must be juggled onto this desk. Remember, the aisles are fairly narrow, and the invigilators need to walk up and down them. In the event of a fire, know your way to safety.