Before you start
Define what you are testing
Choose scope, duration, permitted materials and completion criteria. A partial mock can test one problem type; a global mock checks selection, timing and transitions between units.
Reproduce useful conditions
Use continuous time, clear instructions and resources equivalent to those permitted. Artificial pressure is unnecessary. The aim is an interpretable sample, not a test of endurance.
Correct in a separate session
Rest before reviewing. Label each error by cause: unknown content, retrieval, procedure, reading, calculation or time. Include correct answers that were uncertain.
Turn errors into calendar tasks
Create one small task for each error pattern, practise a variant and schedule another attempt. Do not repeat the whole mock next day before working on its causes.
Mock exam record
- Date, scope and time limit.
- Unanswered questions and time used.
- Error type without personal data.
- Associated correction task.
- Date of the next attempt or check.
Practical example
A 195-minute sequence over three days
The exam is Friday. The mock is Monday, correction Tuesday and focused practice Wednesday.
- Monday: 90-minute mock and stop; no tired correction.
- Tuesday: 60 minutes to classify and solve errors again.
- Wednesday: 45 minutes with three variants of the two main patterns.
- Thursday: a separate 20-minute review and normal rest.
- Friday has no tasks scheduled after the exam time.
Decisions and adaptation
If the result is very low
Reduce scope, identify one or two prerequisites and practise before repeating. Another full test without intervention adds little information.
If time runs out
Separate missing knowledge from time management. Practise selection and closure, but do not skip essential reasoning merely to finish.
Frequently asked questions
How many mock exams do I need?
It depends on format and time. One carefully corrected attempt can be more useful than several repetitions without intervention.
Can I use notes?
They may help in an early diagnostic, but a final-condition mock should match the resources allowed in the real assessment.
Should I record the score?
An indicative result can help, but record error patterns and decisions above all; one score does not explain how to improve.