Many IB Maths students in Hong Kong prepare thoroughly but still underperform on exam day. The reason is often not knowledge, but poor exam-day strategy.

At Mathzem, we help students develop clear, repeatable exam routines that reduce anxiety and protect marks. This guide walks you through exactly what to do before, during, and after your IB Maths exam day strategy to perform at your best in AA and AI, SL and HL.

Before the Exam Day: Set Yourself Up for Success

1. Prepare Materials the Night Before

Ensure you have:

• Approved calculator (charged)
• Spare batteries
• Pens, pencils, ruler
• Formula booklet (if provided)

Avoid last-minute stress.

2. Sleep and Nutrition Matter

Sleep improves:

• Focus
• Accuracy
• Decision-making

Eat a balanced meal to avoid fatigue during long papers.

3. Review Strategy, Not Content

On exam day:

• Don’t cram new topics
• Review key methods
• Recall common mistakes to avoid

Confidence beats last-minute learning.

During the Exam: How to Maximise Marks

1. Read the Paper Carefully

Before writing:

• Scan the paper
• Note mark allocations
• Identify comfortable questions

This helps with pacing.

2. Start With What You Know

Build momentum by:

• Attempting familiar questions first
• Securing easy method marks

Confidence improves performance.

3. Show Full Working

Even when unsure:

• Write formulas
• Set up equations
• Explain reasoning

Method marks are your safety net.

4. Manage Time Actively

A practical rule:

• About 1.5 minutes per mark

If stuck:

• Move on
• Return later

Don’t let one question drain time.

5. Use Calculators Wisely

Ensure:

• Correct modes
• Clear interpretation of outputs
• Written explanation when required

Calculator results without context can lose marks.

6. Stay Calm After Mistakes

Mistakes happen.

Key rule:

• Don’t panic
• Continue logically
• You can still earn marks

Mental resilience protects scores.

After the Exam: What to Do Immediately

1. Let Go of the Paper

Avoid:

• Overanalysing
• Comparing answers
• Stressing about mistakes

What’s done is done.

2. Reset for the Next Paper

If you have:

• Another Maths paper
• Another subject exam

Refocus and prepare fresh.

3. Learn for the Future

After the exam period:

• Reflect on time management
• Identify stress triggers
• Improve strategy for future exams

Experience builds exam strength.

Exam Strategy Differences: SL vs HL

SL Students

Focus on:

• Accuracy
• Completing all questions
• Avoiding silly mistakes

HL Students

Focus on:

• Time management
• Clear reasoning
• Not getting stuck on long questions

HL exams reward strategy as much as skill.

AA vs AI: Exam Day Adjustments

Maths AA

• Write algebra clearly
• Show calculus steps
• Avoid unnecessary shortcuts

Maths AI

• Interpret results clearly
• Explain statistical conclusions
• Use calculator outputs thoughtfully

Your strategy should reflect assessment style.

How Mathzem Prepares Students for Exam Day

At Mathzem, we help Hong Kong IB students:

• Practise full exams under timed conditions
• Develop personal exam routines
• Improve focus and confidence
• Maximise method marks

Preparation includes how to sit the exam not just what to study.

Explore Mathzem membership and pricing options:
https://mathzem.com/membership-pricing/

FAQs About IB Maths Exam Day Strategy

Q1: Should I answer questions in order?

Not necessarily, start with what you know.

Q2: What if I run out of time?

Write formulas and setup, partial marks still apply.

Q3: Is it okay to leave a question and return later?

Yes, this is often a smart strategy.

Q4: Should I double-check everything?

Focus on high-risk questions and calculations.

Q5: Can exam technique really improve scores?

Yes, many students gain marks through strategy alone.

Conclusion

Success in IB Maths exams is not just about preparation, it’s about execution. Hong Kong students who approach exam day calmly, manage time well, and focus on method marks consistently outperform those who rely on knowledge alone.

Know the maths. Trust your process. Execute your strategy.

If you want expert support preparing for IB Maths exam day, Mathzem is ready to help.

View membership and pricing options.