Taking a digital exam? Practise the format, too.

Start by asking how your paper works

Knowing your subject and knowing how to navigate your examination are separate preparation tasks. Ask your centre whether each paper is on paper, electronic or hybrid, and how you will enter your answers. Keep this information alongside your subject and paper numbers.

In its April 2025 statement, CXC announced electronic or hybrid delivery for January sessions from January 2026. That announcement does not establish the mode of every paper in every sitting. Use the timetable and instructions for your own session, together with your centre’s guidance.

Source: Registrar’s statement on January e-Assessment

Explore the official specimen platform

CXC’s specimen page includes a Hybrid section with sample papers and answer booklets. Pick the relevant qualification and subject, read the demo instructions, and take a slow first pass before adding a timer. The aim is to notice anything you need to ask about while there is still time to practise.

• Read the opening instructions instead of clicking straight through.
• Practise moving between questions and checking which ones you have answered.
• For a hybrid sample, rehearse reading on screen and writing in the matching booklet.
• Try the available text presentation settings and note any access needs to discuss with your centre early.

Source: Specimen Papers

Rehearse a small section in the right format

Once the controls feel familiar, choose a few questions and use a realistic time allowance. Keep the screen and writing space arranged comfortably. Check that your written question numbers match the questions you intended to answer.

Afterwards, separate subject difficulties from navigation difficulties. If you knew the method but spent too long finding a question, practise the interface again. If you were unsure of the method itself, make that the next learning task.

Leave exam-day logistics to confirmed instructions

Confirm arrival time, identification, equipment and any access arrangements with your centre. Do not assume a practice platform’s instructions replace the rules for a live examination. If something is unclear or stops working during the exam, follow the invigilator’s instructions and ask for help promptly.