Many WAEC candidates lose 10-30 marks to avoidable mistakes. These errors have nothing to do with intelligence – they are simple pitfalls that can be fixed with the right strategies.
This article reveals the top 10 mistakes students make in WAEC and how you can avoid them to secure higher grades.
Mistake 1: Ignoring Instructions
Example: Writing an informal letter when the question asked for a formal letter, or answering more questions than required.
Fix: Spend the first 3 minutes reading instructions twice. Underline key phrases like "answer any three" or "not more than 450 words."
Mistake 2: Poor Time Management
Example: Spending 45 minutes on one essay and rushing the rest.
Fix: Allocate time per section before you start. Use a watch. Move on if stuck, return later.
Mistake 3: Skipping Past Questions
Example: Reading theory only without practicing actual WAEC-style questions.
Fix: Solve past questions weekly. Aim for 5-10 years of past papers per subject.
Mistake 4: Handwriting and Presentation
Example: Illegible handwriting, no paragraphing, messy diagrams.
Fix: Practice neat handwriting. Leave margins. Use clear headings and indent paragraphs. Redraw messy diagrams.
Mistake 5: Ignoring Marking Schemes
Example: Writing long answers but missing the specific points examiners reward.
Fix: Study marking schemes. Answer exactly what is asked. Bullet points often help clarity.
Mistake 6: Weak Exam Technique
Example: Starting with the hardest questions first, leaving easy marks on the table.
Fix: Start with easiest questions to build confidence and secure quick marks. Leave the hardest for later.
Mistake 7: Not Showing Working
Example: In Mathematics/Physics, giving only final answers without steps.
Fix: Show every step. Even if the final answer is wrong, you earn method marks.
Mistake 8: Cramming Instead of Understanding
Example: Memorizing definitions without knowing applications.
Fix: Use active recall and teach-back methods. Apply concepts to questions immediately after learning.
Mistake 9: Neglecting Weak Subjects
Example: Avoiding Chemistry because it feels hard, leading to poor scores.
Fix: Tackle weak subjects daily for at least 45-60 minutes. Get help from teachers or peers.
Mistake 10: Late Arrival and Poor Exam-Day Prep
Example: Arriving late, forgetting required materials, or skipping breakfast.
Fix: Pack materials (pens, pencils, ruler, calculator) the night before. Arrive 30 minutes early. Eat a light, healthy meal.
Bonus: Subject-Specific Mistakes
English
Writing below required word count; using slang; missing letter formats. Practice weekly essays and letters.
Mathematics
Calculation errors; misreading questions; skipping units. Double-check every calculation.
Sciences
Wrong diagrams; missing labels; poor practical preparation. Memorize standard diagrams and procedures.
Quick Fix Checklist
- ✓ Read instructions twice
- ✓ Start with easy questions
- ✓ Show all workings
- ✓ Use marking schemes to guide answers
- ✓ Practice 5-10 years of past questions
- ✓ Keep handwriting neat and organized
- ✓ Sleep 7-8 hours before exam day
Turn Mistakes Into Marks
Most WAEC errors are avoidable. By fixing these 10 mistakes, you immediately protect 10-30 marks per subject.
Your next step: Take a past paper today. As you review, list every mistake you made. Fix them before your next practice. Repeat weekly.
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