AI predicts the 11 most common mistakes students make during exams

It was recently revealed that exam boards are calling for social media companies to crack down on scammers selling fake GCSE and A-level papers to students.

Despite TikTok and Instagram reporting they do not allow the sale of exam papers on their platforms, dozens of accounts have been found, falsely claiming to have access to this year’s exam papers – with some charging hundreds of pounds.

With exam season in full swing, AIPRM, were keen to ask AI how to spot GCSE scam papers, as well as uncovering eleven of the most common mistakes students make during exams.

Seven tips on how to to identity GCSE scam papers according to ChatGPT

1. Question “Too Good to Be True” Offers: If you come across someone offering exam papers for sale or claiming to have access to leaked questions, it’s likely a scam. Exam papers are strictly controlled, and genuine leaks are extremely rare.
2. Verify the Source: Before engaging with any individual or organisation offering exam papers, check their credentials. Look for a legitimate website, contact information, and clear ownership. Scam accounts often have vague or minimal information.
3. Check with Exam Boards or Teachers: If you hear rumours about leaked papers or suspect someone is selling them, report it to your teachers or the relevant exam boards. They can confirm whether it’s legitimate or not and take appropriate action.
4. Use Official Study Resources: Instead of seeking shortcuts, rely on authorised study guides, textbooks, and past exam papers from reputable sources. These are designed to help you prepare without risking academic integrity or facing scam-related consequences.
5. Beware of Phishing Attempts: Scammers might use fake emails, social media messages, or websites to lure you into providing personal or financial information. Be cautious about unsolicited messages and avoid clicking on unfamiliar links.
6. Avoid Sharing Personal Information: If someone asks for personal information like your full name, address, or financial details in exchange for exam papers, it’s a red flag. Keep your information private and share it only with trusted individuals and organisations.
7. Report Suspicious Activity: If you encounter someone selling fake exam papers or discover a suspicious website, report it to your school’s administration, the exam board, or a trusted adult. This helps protect you and others from falling victim to the scam.

Eleven of the most common mistakes students make during exams according to ChatGPT

1. Misreading the Question: This happens when students fail to understand what the question is asking. To avoid this, read the question slowly and carefully, underline key words, and re-read if needed to ensure you grasp all parts of the question.
2. Poor Time Management: Spending too much time on a single question can jeopardise your ability to complete the exam. Practice timing techniques, and have a plan for how long to spend on each section or question.
3. Failing to Answer All Parts of a Question: Multi-part questions require answers for each section. Be sure to answer each part, and check for additional instructions or follow-up questions.
4. Neglecting to Review Work: Not reviewing your answers before submitting can lead to missed errors or incomplete responses. Leave a few minutes at the end of the exam to double-check your work.
5. Lack of Clarity and Organization: Disorganized or unclear responses can confuse graders. Outline your answers where needed, and write in clear, legible handwriting or print if possible.
6. Leaving Questions Blank: If you don’t know the full answer, try to provide partial answers or make an educated guess. Blank responses guarantee zero points, while partial attempts could earn you some credit.
7. Ignoring Instructions: Not following exam instructions can lead to errors or disqualification. Read all instructions thoroughly, including specific directions about where and how to answer.
8. Failing to Show Work or Justify Answers: In exams that require calculations or explanations, showing your work or providing justification is crucial. Make sure to include these details to earn full credit.
9. Using Prohibited Materials: Some exams have strict rules about what can be brought in. Ensure you follow these rules to avoid disqualification or other consequences. Check ahead of time to know what’s allowed.
10. Letting Anxiety Take Over: Exam stress can lead to poor performance. Practice relaxation techniques, deep breathing, and a positive mindset to keep calm during the exam.
11. Overcomplicating Answers: Some students may feel the need to write excessively long answers, leading to confusion or lost time. Stick to what’s asked, and keep your responses concise and focused.