Preparing for exams, whether it’s for your first set of SQA exams or your Master’s orals. It isn’t just about mastering the content—it’s about understanding the examiner’s mindset and exactly what they are looking for. I quickly explain how you can align your exam preparation, to ensure that you show the examiner exactly what they want to see.
1️⃣ Know the Standards
Examiners are looking for proficiency, not perfection. Review the syllabus and competency requirements thoroughly—these are your compass points.
So if you’re studying for your SQA Higher National Units, you want to check the unit specification for the module. So for example if you were studying for your Marine Cargo Operations assessment, you can find the syllabus online by googling “SQA Marine Cargo Operations” or ask your lecturer. When I designed the SafeSeas Training platform I built the entire platform from each of these unit descriptors to double check the entire syllabus was included.
If you’re studying for your orals and want to know what could be assessed, check out MIN 653 amendment 1.
For the SQA Navigation exams, look at this.
This document describes what is in the SQA Stability and Operations assessment.
2️⃣ Think Like a Problem Solver
Examiners value logical thinking. When tackling questions, focus on structured answers that demonstrate your ability to assess and solve the challenge they’ve presented you in real life.
So for example, you may have a question in the Marine Cargo Operations that asks you to list you initial actions in the event of a spill on deck. Put yourself in that scenario, imagine what you will be thinking, feeling and doing. Visualisation is a really important tool, if you imagine yourself doing it – then just talk (or write) your actions down.
3️⃣ Understand Question Types
Are you expected to describe, calculate, or analyse? Practice answering in the specific format the question demands.
I have broken down the UK MCA orals assessments part A and B and the Officer of the Watch SQA Navigation and Stability & Operations assessments in other articles.
4️⃣ Stay Professional Under Pressure
Examiners in the orals assessment observe how you respond in stressful scenarios. Stay calm, communicate clearly and if you don’t understand the question ask them to rephrase.
When answering any question, whether it’s a written or an orals question ensure your answer includes any required safety aspects, protects the marine environment where required and ensures crew and passengers are protected.
Be as accurate in your answers as you can but don’t waffle. Putting in additional unrelated content is a deflection technique and will not give the examiner confidence that you know what you’re talking about!
5️⃣ Practice, Practice, Practice
Mock exams and past papers give insight into how examiners frame their questions and what they’re looking for in responses. If you are using any mock exams, try and use ones with model answers.
One technique is to get a study buddy and each of you pretend to be the examiner. Mark each others written papers and offer critique on how you would have answered (just ensure you are right!). This will help you gain confidence on exactly how to answer the questions and where to avoid the waffle!
The biggest thing to remember is examiner isn’t out to trick you—they want to see you succeed as a competent and confident officer. Think about what they want to see, what you would look for if you were the master and leaving your ship to someone and let that guide your preparation.
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