Read the question twice

Before writing, identify three things:

  1. The command word: this tells you the type of answer required
  2. The biological context: which topic or concept is being tested
  3. The mark allocation: this tells you how many distinct points to make

Underline or circle these three elements. Many students lose marks because they answer the question they expected, not the question that was actually asked.

Use marks as a guide

A [3] question needs three distinct marking points. Do not write two points and hope one of them is worth two marks. If you have written two points and cannot think of a third, re-read the question: you may have missed a required element.

For [1] questions, one precise sentence is enough. Do not write a paragraph.

Answer the specific context

Many questions present data, diagrams, or scenarios. Your answer must refer to the specific context given, not just generic textbook knowledge. If the question is about a graph showing enzyme activity at different pH values, refer to pH values from that graph, not general statements about enzymes.

Time allocation

You have 75 minutes for 80 marks: roughly 1 minute per mark. A 6-mark question deserves 6 minutes of writing. A 1-mark question should take under a minute. If a question is taking much longer than its marks justify, move on and return later.