Exam writing tips

Physical and Mental Preparation

• Do not “cram” especially the morning of the exam.
• Try to duplicate the exam environment when you study (e.g. do not study in bed).
• Write a practice exam.
• Do you need an appointment to write the exam?
• Organize tools the day before the exam.
• Get plenty of sleep and eat properly.
• Limit caffeine intake.

Getting There

• Allow extra time/plan to arrive early.
• Plan route/drive slowly.
• Dress comfortably.
• Consider availability of parking.

What to Bring

• I.D., current medical, letter of recommendation, proof of experience and training.
• Appropriate payment.
• Pencils, eraser, navigation ruler, protractor.
• Approved calculator, flight computer.

At the Counter

• Confirm you have brought all the required items (see above).
• Smile/be polite.
• Ask questions/confirm any ambiguities.
• Confirm you are writing the right exam (English, French, Both).
• Confirm you have the correct appendices, maps, abbreviation list and dictionary.
• Be prepared for delays at the desk.
• Have a good attitude.

Getting Organized in the Room

• Expect one-way mirrors or surveillance cameras.
• Organize your tools/take a few deep breaths.
• Write down formulae that you think you might forget.
• Take time to read the instructions carefully.
• Scan the entire exam before answering any questions.

Time Management

• Make note of your starting time and keep track of your time as you go along.
• Don’t rush.
• Save time consuming and difficult questions until the end.
• Don’t dwell on questions you are unsure of/keep going.
• Save time for review at the end.
• It is not necessary to fill out a flight log.

Getting Help

• If you need help, ask right away (e.g. question is smudged, pen ran dry, computer or calculator broken, you need more paper, etc.).

Reading the Question

• Read every word.
• Read the question at least twice before answering.
• Understand what is being asked/check for key words.
• Cover the answers until your answer is formulated.
• Draw a picture if it will help you visualize the situation.
• If computations are involved, estimate the answer, then compute it exactly.

The Four Responses/Answering the Question

• Consider each answer as a true or false statement.
• Use a process of elimination.
• Choose the most correct response.
• Double check the number on the answer sheet.

“How Goes It” List

• Do the easy questions first.
• Make a list of unsure and unanswered questions.
• Keep your eyes on the time.

Final Check

• Answer all questions/do not leave any questions blank.