Time management is one of the most critical skills required for success in the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME). With the limited time allocated to answer numerous questions across different subjects, candidates often struggle to complete their exams within the stipulated time. Poor time management can result in unanswered questions, rushed answers, and avoidable mistakes. To help you perform at your best, this article offers practical time management tips specifically tailored for UTME 2025.

1. Understand the UTME Exam Format

The first step to effective time management in the UTME is understanding the exam format. JAMB is a computer-based test (CBT) with multiple-choice questions across four selected subjects. Each candidate typically has two hours to complete about 180 questions, distributed as follows:

• Use of English: 60 questions
• Three Other Subjects: 40 questions each

Understanding this format helps you allocate time appropriately to each subject. For example, spending too much time on English could leave you rushing through the remaining subjects. Aim to allocate around 30 minutes for English and 20 minutes for each of the other subjects.

Additionally, familiarize yourself with the CBT platform. Practice mock exams regularly to get used to the layout and navigation. This will reduce time wasted on figuring out how to navigate between questions on the actual exam day.

2. Practice with Timed Mock Exams

Practicing past questions under timed conditions is one of the most effective ways to improve time management. Mock exams help you understand how quickly you need to answer each question to stay on track.

• Set a Timer: Use a timer to simulate the actual exam environment.
• Identify Weak Points: Pay attention to subjects or question types that consume too much of your time.
• Improve Your Speed: With regular practice, your speed and accuracy will improve.

Online CBT platforms often offer timed mock exams. Take full advantage of these resources to build confidence and efficiency.

3. Prioritize Easy Questions First

During the exam, it’s important to avoid getting stuck on difficult questions. Start with questions you find easy and can answer quickly. This ensures you secure marks for questions you are confident about before tackling the more challenging ones.

• Skim Through the Questions: Quickly go through the questions and answer the ones you find easiest.
• Mark Difficult Questions: Use the CBT platform’s ‘flag’ feature to mark difficult questions for review later.
• Don’t Waste Time: If a question seems too challenging, move on and return to it if time allows.

This strategy prevents you from spending an excessive amount of time on a single question while leaving others unanswered.

4. Allocate Time Proportionately to Each Subject

Balancing your time across all four subjects is essential. Spending too much time on one subject may leave insufficient time for the others.

• English: Aim to spend no more than 30 minutes.
• Other Subjects: Allocate about 20 minutes per subject.

Keep an eye on the clock while answering each section. If you notice you’re exceeding your time limit on a subject, quickly move on to the next one.

5. Learn to Use the CBT Platform Efficiently

The JAMB CBT platform is user-friendly, but unfamiliarity can cost you valuable minutes during the exam.

• Navigation: Learn how to move between questions quickly.
• Flagging Questions: Use the ‘flag’ feature to mark questions you want to revisit.
• Reviewing Answers: Before submitting, use the review feature to double-check your answers.

Familiarizing yourself with the platform through regular practice will reduce unnecessary delays during the actual exam.

READ ALSO: How to Operate and Answer JAMB CBT 2025 Questions Using Only 9 Keys

6. Avoid Overthinking Questions

Overthinking a question can waste valuable time and cause unnecessary stress. If you’re unsure about an answer, select the most logical option and move on.

• Trust Your Instincts: Often, your first choice is the correct one.
• Don’t Dwell Too Long: Spending too much time on one question reduces your chance of answering others.

Remember, it’s better to attempt all questions with reasonable guesses than to leave some unanswered.

7. Stay Calm and Focused

Exam anxiety can disrupt your focus and cause you to waste time on simple questions. Staying calm helps you think clearly and make better decisions.

• Practice Breathing Exercises: Take deep breaths to stay relaxed.
• Stay Positive: Remind yourself that you’ve prepared well.
• Focus on One Question at a Time: Avoid worrying about how much time you have left while answering a question.

A calm and focused mind performs much better under time pressure.

8. Manage Breaks and Fatigue

The UTME exam can be mentally exhausting, especially when answering complex questions back-to-back.

• Quick Mental Breaks: Take a few seconds to stretch your fingers or relax your eyes.
• Stay Hydrated: If allowed, have water nearby to stay refreshed.
• Avoid Panic: If you feel overwhelmed, take a deep breath and refocus.

These brief moments of relaxation can help you maintain focus and energy throughout the exam.

9. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute to Submit

Many students make the mistake of waiting until the final seconds to submit their answers. Technical glitches or mistakes during submission can result in loss of all your efforts.

• Finish Early: Aim to complete the exam a few minutes before the allotted time.
• Review Carefully: Use any remaining time to review flagged questions.
• Submit Confidently: Once you’re sure, submit without hesitation.

Early submission reduces the risk of last-minute mishaps.

10. Practice Consistently Before Exam Day

Consistent practice is the key to mastering time management skills. Regular study sessions and mock exams improve speed, accuracy, and confidence.

• Daily Practice: Set aside time daily to answer practice questions.
• Analyze Performance: Review your answers to identify areas for improvement.
• Stay Disciplined: Follow your study timetable diligently.

The more you practice, the more natural time management becomes during the real exam.

Conclusion

Time management is one of the most important factors for success in the UTME. By understanding the exam format, practicing with mock tests, prioritizing easy questions, and staying calm under pressure, you can maximize your performance on exam day. Remember, every second counts, and efficient time usage can be the difference between success and disappointment. With proper preparation and the strategies shared in this article, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the JAMB UTME 2025 confidently and efficiently. Good luck!