Math 30-1 exam-day guide
Math 30-1 · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Approved graphing calculator
Bring a calculator from the current approved list. needs_review: approved models and calculator rules can change-confirm your model with your teacher or provider before exam day.
Spare batteries or backup calculator
Pack spare batteries only if permitted. needs_review: confirm whether spare batteries or a second calculator may be kept at your desk.
Photo ID
Bring the identification your school requires, such as student ID or government photo ID. needs_review: confirm acceptable ID forms with the provider.
Exam location and start time
Confirm room, arrival time, and start time in advance so you are not rushed.
Pencils, eraser, and sharpener
Bring at least two HB pencils, a good eraser, and a small sharpener if allowed.
Non-smart watch
A simple watch can help you pace yourself. needs_review: confirm whether watches are allowed and whether smartwatches are prohibited.
Clear water bottle
Bring water only if the venue permits it. needs_review: confirm food and drink rules with the provider.
Formula sheet familiarity
Review the Mathematics 30-1 formula sheet thoroughly. needs_review: confirm whether the formula sheet is supplied with the exam or whether you may bring a copy.
Calculator mode and memory check
Know how to switch between degree and radian mode and how to clear memory if instructed. Do this before exam day, not during the test.
Bag or pouch for personal items
Plan to turn off and store your phone and other devices as directed. Do not keep them at your desk.
Exam rules review
Read the calculator, conduct, and ID rules before exam day so there are no surprises.
Sleep and breakfast plan
Protect your sleep in the final week and plan a normal breakfast. Cramming late is usually a net loss.
Plan the day
Re-read the formula sheet and make a short summary of formulas and common errors. Do one or two timed practice sets, then review mistakes. Check calculator batteries and confirm your model is approved. Confirm room, start time, ID requirements, and transportation. Keep sleep and meal times steady.
Pack ID, pencils, eraser, calculator, and any permitted spare batteries. Lay out clothes and confirm your alarm and ride. Do light review only-no new topics. Avoid intense cramming and get a normal night's sleep.
Eat breakfast, arrive early, and use the restroom before entering. Turn your phone off and store it as directed. Check that your calculator is in the correct mode. Listen carefully to instructions and read the exam cover page.
Read all instructions first. Budget time by the number of questions and the marks available. Answer easier questions first, mark uncertain ones, and return to them. Enter numerical responses carefully and check units and rounding. If time remains, review calculations rather than leaving early.
Make sure no required question is left blank if guessing is permitted. Confirm your calculator is not in the wrong mode. Submit materials exactly as the invigilator directs.
Rules to check
Bring the ID required by your school or provider. Confirm acceptable forms in advance; do not assume any photo ID will be accepted.
Keep only approved materials at your desk. Phones, smartwatches, notes, and other devices must be turned off and stored as directed.
Use only an approved calculator. Do not use a calculator with a computer algebra system or a QWERTY keyboard, and do not share calculators unless the provider explicitly permits it.
Follow all invigilator instructions and academic honesty rules. Do not communicate with other candidates during the exam.
Ask about breaks before the exam begins. Confirm with the provider whether breaks are allowed and whether the clock stops during a break.
Confirm scoring rules in advance, including whether unanswered questions or guessing are penalized and how numerical-response questions are marked.
If your calculator fails, you arrive late, or another problem occurs, report it to the invigilator immediately. Confirm the provider's procedure before exam day.