What the Research Says

Past papers are the single most effective way to prepare for the external assessment. They familiarise you with question formats, time pressure, and command words. Research consistently shows that practice testing under exam conditions improves performance more than any other revision strategy (Roediger & Karpicke, 2006).

Step-by-Step Method

1. 1
   Source past papers — Download from the Pearson website or your teacher. Include sample assessment materials (SAMs).
2. 2
   Sit a full paper under timed conditions — 90 minutes, no notes, no phone. Simulate the real exam as closely as possible.
3. 3
   Self-mark using the mark scheme — Compare your answers point-by-point. Note where you lost marks and why.
4. 4
   Categorise your errors — Were they knowledge gaps (you did not know the content), technique gaps (you knew it but could not express it), or timing gaps (you ran out of time)?
5. 5
   Target your weaknesses — Use other revision techniques (retrieval practice, case study practice) to address the specific gaps you identified.
6. 6
   Repeat — Do another paper in 1–2 weeks. Track whether your score improves and whether the same mistakes recur.

When and How Often

A full cycle takes about 2.5 hours. Do at least 3–4 full papers before the exam.

Common Mistakes

• ❌
  Doing papers without marking — The learning happens in the review, not in the writing. Always mark and analyse your answers.
• ❌
  Only doing recent papers — Older papers test the same skills. Use all available papers for maximum practice.
• ❌
  Ignoring timing — If you always run out of time, practise speed on lower-mark questions so you have more time for 6 and 8 mark extended response questions.