MATSEC AM Economics exam-day guide
MATSEC AM Economics · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Original photo ID
Bring the original ID document named on your entry (ID card or passport). needs_review: confirm accepted ID types and whether a photocopy is allowed with the provider.
Entry statement and timetable
Have the date, start time, venue and seat/room details ready. needs_review: confirm whether a printed copy must be brought; some centres require ID only.
Pens, pencils and eraser
Two black or blue pens, two pencils, eraser, sharpener and a transparent pencil case. Use pencil for graphs and diagrams if corrections are likely; confirm any ink-colour rule.
Non-programmable calculator
If permitted, bring a silent non-programmable calculator with fresh batteries. needs_review: confirm permitted models, whether graphical/programmable calculators are banned, and whether calculators are allowed in your paper.
Clear ruler
A transparent ruler for tables, axes and diagrams. A spare small ruler is useful if one is misplaced.
Non-smart watch
Use it to pace yourself if the hall clock is not visible. needs_review: confirm your centre's policy on wristwatches; smart watches are normally prohibited.
Clear water bottle
Remove the label before entering. needs_review: confirm whether water is allowed at your desk; some centres restrict drinks.
Phone switched off and stored
Leave it at home or switch it off and place it in the designated area before entering the exam room. Do not keep it in your pocket.
One-page economics summary
For revision before the exam only, not to take in: key definitions, diagram labels (PPF, supply and demand, cost curves, AD/AS), elasticity formulas, multiplier, market-structure criteria and evaluation phrases.
Travel and venue plan
Check the route, transport or parking and allow a margin. needs_review: confirm the centre's recommended arrival time and late-admission cutoff with the provider.
Plan the day
Check the timetable and entry statement; confirm venue, start time, duration, ID rules, calculator rules and any permitted materials with your centre. Build a one-page summary of diagrams, definitions and formulas. Do one timed past-paper section, then mark it and list the two or three weaknesses to fix.
Pack the bag: ID, entry statement, pens, pencils, calculator, ruler, water and watch. Lay out clothes, plan travel and set an alarm. Revise lightly only: diagram labels, definitions and a few calculation drills. Avoid new topics and avoid late-night cramming.
Eat and hydrate. Arrive with time to spare, switch off the phone and store it, keep ID ready, use the toilet before entering, and listen carefully to the invigilator. Avoid comparing answers or topics with other candidates outside the room.
Read the front instructions and all questions before writing. Note how many questions are required, whether there is a choice, and the marks per section. Allocate minutes roughly in proportion to marks and start with a question you know well, but keep to your time plan.
Define key terms, use a fully labelled diagram where it earns marks, explain cause-and-effect chains, and show calculations including units. If the question asks for evaluation, give a short judgement with a reason rather than only a list.
Check question numbers, units, diagram labels and that no required section is blank. Confirm you have not answered too many questions. Do not leave early unless the centre permits it.
Rules to check
Bring the original ID document named on your entry and keep it on the desk; confirm accepted ID with the provider before exam day.
Switch off all electronic devices, including phones and smart watches, and place them in the designated area; unauthorised devices may lead to malpractice proceedings.
Do not communicate with other candidates once in the exam room. Raise your hand for an invigilator if you need paper, need the toilet, or have a problem.
Write only on the stationery or answer booklet provided, and follow the instructions on which questions to answer and where to write.
needs_review: late admission, extra time and access arrangements are centre-specific; confirm the cutoff and any approved arrangements with the provider.
Breaks during written exams are normally not permitted; needs_review: confirm your centre's policy and raise your hand if you need to leave the room.
Scoring: show workings in calculations and label diagrams fully; marks are often awarded for method, definitions and application, not just the final number. Confirm the marking conventions for your paper.
Academic honesty: bringing notes, unauthorised equipment, or helping another candidate is malpractice; penalties can include cancellation of the paper.