The forthcoming 2024 Joint Admissions Matriculation Board (JAMB)/Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) is scheduled to occur from April 19th to 29th, 2024.
As a student gearing up for the JAMB/UTME examination, it is imperative that you have completed your registration by the extended deadline of April 11.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on the essential steps to take before and during the UTME exam to enhance your performance and achieve success.
1. Familiarize Yourself with the Cut-off Mark
Understanding the stipulated JAMB cut-off mark and setting a target score aligned with your desired course and institution is crucial for excelling in the examination. By determining the average JAMB cut-off mark required for your specific course and school, you can strategize effectively to meet or exceed this benchmark.
For instance, if your goal is to pursue mass communication and aim for a score of 320 in JAMB, you can break down your target into achievable scores in different subjects, such as 80 in English, 80 in Literature-in-English, 90 in Government, and 70 in CRK/IRK, depending on your subject choices.
2. Develop a Study Plan and Timetable
Creating a personalized study plan and timetable is essential for optimizing your learning experience and managing your time efficiently as a JAMB/UTME candidate. Reflecting on your past academic performances, identifying your strengths and weaknesses across various subjects, and allocating dedicated study time accordingly are key strategies for success.
By mapping out your daily routine, including activities like waking up, studying, chores, and leisure time, you can tailor a study plan that aligns with your schedule and learning preferences.
3. Utilize JAMB Past Questions
Engaging with past JAMB examination questions is a valuable strategy to familiarize yourself with the exam format and question patterns. By reviewing past questions, you can enhance your preparation and improve your efficiency in tackling objective questions.
It is essential to recognize common question formats and topics that frequently appear in the exam, allowing you to focus your study efforts on areas that require more attention.
Geometry, trigonometry, statistics, matrices, and differentiation are recurring topics in mathematics, while English language exams often feature lexicography and structural questions. By analyzing past questions from at least the last 15 editions, you can gain insights into the exam’s content and structure.
4. Adhere to the JAMB Syllabus
Following the official JAMB syllabus is a fundamental step in preparing effectively for the UTME examination. Familiarizing yourself with the prescribed topics and subject areas outlined in the syllabus enables you to focus your study efforts on relevant material that is likely to be tested.
Examiners typically base their questions on the syllabus content, making it essential for candidates to align their study materials and methods with the syllabus requirements to maximize their preparation.
5. Solve a Decade of JAMB Past Questions
To excel in the JAMB exam, it is recommended to solve past questions spanning at least ten years to enhance your familiarity with the exam format and content. By revisiting past questions, adjusting your study schedule based on the remaining preparation time, and dedicating yourself to thorough studying, you can boost your readiness for the examination.
Given the extensive history of JAMB exams dating back to the 1970s, solving past questions from different years is a strategic approach to consolidating your knowledge and improving your performance.
By utilizing reliable study resources, reviewing textbooks, and ensuring a deep understanding of question solutions, you can reinforce your grasp of key concepts and enhance your problem-solving skills.
6. Practice Daily JAMB CBT Software Tests
Engaging in timed JAMB Computer-Based Test (CBT) software tests on a daily basis in the two weeks leading up to the exam is a beneficial practice to enhance your speed and accuracy. By simulating the exam environment and completing timed practice tests, you can familiarize yourself with the exam format and optimize your performance under time constraints.
Selecting previous years’ questions and striving to complete four topics’ worth of JAMB past questions within the allocated exam duration of two hours can help you gauge your readiness and improve your test-taking skills.
7. Prepare Mentally for the Exam
Mental preparedness is a crucial aspect of excelling in the JAMB exam. By cultivating a positive mindset, managing stress effectively, and visualizing success, you can enhance your confidence and performance on exam day.
Engaging in mental imagery exercises, such as visualizing the exam day scenario from start to finish, can help you build confidence, reduce anxiety, and prepare yourself for the challenges ahead. Practicing deep breathing techniques and relaxation exercises can further aid in stress management and mental readiness for the exam.
Ensure that you have all the necessary writing materials ready for the JAMB UTME exam, verifying their condition and functionality beforehand to avoid any last-minute issues. Having spare materials on hand can provide added reassurance and preparedness for a smooth exam experience.
