As a WAEC candidate preparing for the 2025 exams, you must be aware of common pitfalls that students often make. Avoiding these mistakes can make a significant difference in your results, especially if you aim for straight As. This article will help you understand the mistakes to avoid, what you should do instead, and answer some frequently asked questions related to the exam.
Mistakes you should not make in WAEC
Many students make mistakes that can severely affect their chances of passing WAEC with flying colors. These mistakes often come from poor planning, relying on malpractice, or not knowing how to approach the exam questions. Do you want to know how to avoid these? Just continue reading.
How to get straight As in WAEC
Getting straight As in WAEC is not impossible, it is achievable with the right preparation and approach. Do you know that many students make avoidable errors that prevent them from excelling? We will point out these mistakes and show you what to do to increase your chances of success.
How the 2024 WAEC Examination Is Conducted and Pass Rate
WAEC exam 2024 is conducted in selected centers across West Africa. It consists of multiple-choice questions, theory-based questions, and practicals for science-related subjects. WAEC has always focused on ensuring that the exams are fair and that candidates follow the guidelines strictly to prevent malpractice.
Exam authorities also closely monitor these centers to ensure transparency and fairness. On the WAEC exams of 2024, the pass rate was 72.12%, with each student having a credit on the five compulsory subjects.
How WAEC questions are set
Do you ever wonder how WAEC questions are created? WAEC questions are set by professional educators based on the curriculum. Each subject has its own specific exam structure, which is made up of multiple-choice questions, essay-style theory questions, and practicals for subjects like physics, chemistry, and biology. These questions assess your ability to recall facts, apply knowledge, and demonstrate practical skills. If you understand the syllabus, you’ll have a good idea of what to expect during the exam.
Mistakes to Avoid as a WAEC Candidate
1. Poor time management
You must learn to manage time while preparing and during the exam itself. A major mistake many candidates make is procrastinating on their study plans. Waiting until the last minute will only lead to cramming, and this can result in poor retention of information. During the exam, not managing your time efficiently can cause you to leave questions unanswered.
How can you avoid this mistake?
Start preparing early and break down your study sessions into manageable chunks over several months. Create a study schedule that allows you to focus on each subject thoroughly without feeling rushed. On the day of the exam, take a few minutes to review all the questions before starting, then allocate time based on the marks assigned to each section. Prioritize questions that you know well, and keep track of your time to avoid last-minute rushes.
2. Not Following Exam Instructions
Ignoring instructions during the exam is one of the most common mistakes students make. For instance, some students fail to answer the required number of questions or mistakenly tackle questions from sections they weren’t supposed to touch. This leads to the loss of valuable marks.
What can you do instead?
Always read the instructions carefully before attempting any question. WAEC instructions are clear, so pay attention to directives like “Answer three out of five questions” or “Do not write in this section.” Follow these guidelines and write your exams.
3. Relying on Exam Malpractice
Some students mistakenly believe that exam malpractice will guarantee their success. This includes copying answers from others, using unauthorized materials, or expecting help from invigilators. However, WAEC has implemented strict measures to combat exam malpractice, and candidates caught engaging in it face serious consequences, including cancellation of their results.
How can you avoid this mistake?
Rather than relying on malpractice, focus on building your confidence through preparation. Study past question papers to practice regularly, understand the format of the questions, and ensure that you can answer them on your own. This approach will not only help you pass but also give you the confidence you need in future academic endeavors.
4. Lack of Familiarity with Past Questions
Some candidates underestimate the importance of practicing past WAEC questions. These questions often reveal the patterns and common topics that appear in the exams. Ignoring them is a major mistake that can leave you unprepared for what’s to come.
What should you do instead?
Study past questions for each subject. Past questions are a valuable resource for understanding how WAEC structures its questions. This practice will also help you get familiar with time management during the exam. Aim to solve at least five years’ worth of past questions and compare your answers with the marking schemes to assess your understanding.
5. Choose the Right Subjects
Selecting subjects without careful thought can negatively affect your overall performance. For example, some students choose subjects that they are not strong in or that are not required for their intended course of study. This mistake can make it difficult to achieve the credits you need to move forward academically.
What should you do instead?
Consult with your teachers or academic advisors before selecting your WAEC subjects. Choose subjects that align with your strengths and future career goals. For instance, if you plan to study engineering, ensure you focus on subjects like mathematics, physics, and chemistry.
What You Should Do Instead
To pass WAEC and avoid these common mistakes, you need to adopt effective strategies. Here are some helpful tips to improve your performance:
1. Study regularly: Start studying months ahead of the exam and follow a structured timetable that covers all your subjects.
2. Practice past questions: Utilize WAEC past questions to know WAEC exam format and common topics.
3. Focus on your strengths: Prioritize the subjects you are confident in, but don’t neglect the ones you find challenging. Seek help in areas where you need improvement.
4. Avoid distractions: Limit distractions like excessive social media use or spending too much time on non-academic activities.
5. Stay healthy: Ensure you get enough rest, eat well, and stay hydrated during the preparation period and on exam days.
FAQs
Can I write 10 subjects in WAEC?
Yes, you can register for up to 10 subjects in WAEC. However, it’s important to understand that more subjects mean more work and more stress. Most candidates opt for nine subjects, but if you feel confident in your abilities and have the time to study for 10 subjects, you can go ahead. Also, know that only nine subjects are needed to get admission into the university.
Is NECO harder than WAEC?
NECO (National Examinations Council) is not necessarily harder than WAEC. Both exams test similar content from the same syllabus, and their difficulty levels vary depending on the student’s preparation. Some students find NECO to be more easy, while others prefer Your success in both exams depends on your dedication and understanding of the subjects.
How can I get a good WAEC result?
To get a good result in WAEC, start by preparing early and following a study plan that covers the entire syllabus. Practice with past WAEC questions, review the marking schemes, and ensure that you understand the concepts in each subject. Also avoid distractions and focus on understanding rather than cramming.
Is WAEC 2024 going to be computer-based?
No, WAEC 2024 is not computer-based.
Though the private candidates of WAEC have added CB as an option.
How many WAEC exams are there in a year?
WAEC conducts two main examinations each year. The first is the regular WAEC exam for school candidates, usually held between May and June. The second is the WAEC GCE (General Certificate Examination) for private candidates, typically conducted between August and October.
Can I use my WAEC result after 10 years?
Yes, your WAEC result remains valid indefinitely. There is no expiration date on WAEC results, so if you need it for university admissions or job applications, you can use your results even after 10 years.
In conclusion, avoiding these common mistakes as a WAEC candidate will put you on the path to success. By following the right strategies and staying disciplined, you can maximize your chances of achieving excellent grades. Remember, it’s not just about passing; it’s about excelling.