Most examinees would say that Math was the most difficult part of the Civil Service Exams. That might be true, but this does not mean that you just give up and leave everything to fate. There are some tips to help make Math easier to pass.
1. Practice Basic Math
While there’s analogy, logic, sequence or series, and some geometry questions, Math in the Civil Service Exams only covers basic topics. There are no calculus or advanced geometry or other higher-level Math. Instead, many of the questions will be about real-life problems, including loans, buy and sell, and business.
Try your best to practice basic Math – and practice doing it fast.
2. Be Quick
No matter what type of Civil Service Exam you are taking, there’s a time constraint. This means that there is a time limit; you should submit the exam papers at the end of this time. You actually have around 3 minutes to answer each item. So, be quick!
Count quickly, do arithmetic quickly, and do your best to answer all the items as fast as you can.
3. Don’t Spend Too Much Time on One Question
Always keep in mind that the exam has a time constraint. Do not spend too much time on one difficult question. You have to answer as many as you can. Don’t over-analyze the questions.
If you’re having a hard time on one item, skip it first. You can take note of that item so you can get back to it after you’re done with the exam.
4. Trust Your Instincts
If the exam feels like it has too many difficult questions, trust your instincts. Pick the answer that you think is the best. If the time is almost up and you still have a lot of blanks, speed-read on the questions and pick a letter.
You’re better off having an unsure answer for an item than a blank. Who knows? Perhaps the unsure answer you picked was actually the correct one? Leaving the item blank wouldn’t give you a chance to earn a point!
Good luck with your exams…