The Ultimate IB Exam Day Checklist
Alright, you've put in the hours, you've done the past papers, and now it's game day. The final hurdle isn't about learning new content; it's about execution. Acing your IB exams is as much about being preparedlogistically as it is academically. A forgotten calculator or a sleepless night can throw off even the best-prepared student. This checklist is your blueprint for a smooth, stress-free, and successful exam day. Let's make sure nothing gets in the way of you showing the examiners what you know.
Part 1: The Night Before – Your Pre-Exam Ritual
Success starts before you even get to the exam hall. Think of tonight as your final, easy prep session. No heavy lifting, just smart moves.
- Pack Your "Go-Bag": Don't leave this for the morning rush. Lay everything out tonight. This includes your student ID, exam timetable, and your clear pencil case.
- Gear Check: Make sure you have at least three working black or dark blue ink pens. Test them. Bring multiple HB pencils, a good eraser, and a transparent ruler.
- Calculator Duty: If you need a calculator, is it an IB-approved model? Is it fully charged or does it have fresh batteries? Put it in test mode if required. Don't let a dead battery cost you points.
- Set Multiple Alarms: Set one on your phone and another across the room. Give yourself plenty of time to wake up, have breakfast, and get to the venue without sprinting.
- Fuel Plan: Think about what you'll have for breakfast. Choose something you know and like that will give you sustained energy (more on this below).
- The No-Cram Rule: Seriously. Cramming new information now will only increase anxiety and tire your brain. Your goal tonight is to relax and consolidate. A light flick through your summary notes is fine, but then shut the books.
The Lanterna Tip on Sleep: Your brain does its best work when it's rested. Sacrificing sleep for last-minute revision is a bad trade. Aim for 7-9 hours. Create a calm wind-down routine: no screens for at least 30-60 minutes before bed, maybe read a book (not a textbook!), or listen to some calm music. A rested brain remembers more and panics less.
Part 2: Exam Day Morning – Fuel & Focus
What you do this morning sets the tone for the entire exam. The goal is calm, focused energy.
Brain-Boosting Breakfast Ideas
Don't skip breakfast, but also don't try anything new that could upset your stomach. Think "slow-release energy", not a sugar rush and crash.
Complex Carbs + Protein
Oatmeal or porridge with berries and nuts. This is the gold standard for sustained energy release, keeping you focused for hours.
Healthy Fats + Protein
Whole-wheat toast with avocado and a scrambled or boiled egg. This combo keeps you feeling full and promotes alertness.
Quick & Nutritious
Plain Greek yogurt with a sprinkle of low-sugar granola and fruit. High in protein to keep your concentration sharp.
Light & Simple
A smoothie with spinach, a banana, and a scoop of protein powder or nut butter. Easy to digest and packed with nutrients.
Final Logistics
- Hydrate: Drink water. Your brain needs it to function optimally. Prepare your clear, label-free water bottle to take with you.
- Dress Smart: Go for comfort and layers. Exam rooms can be unpredictably hot or cold, and you don't want to be distracted by being uncomfortable.
- Arrive Early: Plan to be at the exam venue at least 20 minutes before the start time. This gives you a buffer for traffic and time to find your seat, use the restroom, and take a few deep breaths without feeling rushed.
Part 3: Your Exam Room Toolkit
The IB has strict rules, and following them is non-negotiable. Here’s exactly what should be in your clear pencil case or Ziploc bag, and what must be left behind.
✅ What to Bring In
- Student ID: Mandatory. No ID, no exam.
- Pens & Pencils: Black/blue pens, HB pencils, eraser.
- Geometry Set: Transparent ruler, protractor, compass (for Maths/Sciences).
- Approved Calculator: For permitted papers only. A spare is a great idea.
- Non-Smart Watch: A basic analogue or digital watch is perfect for pacing.
- Clear Water Bottle: No labels allowed.
- Tissues: A small, clear packet.
- Medical Items: Inhalers, EpiPens, etc. (inform invigilators beforehand).
❌ What to Leave Behind
- Mobile Phone: Not just off, but completely out of the exam room. Having one on you, even if off, can void your exam.
- Smartwatches & Fitness Trackers: Any device with connectivity or storage is banned.
- Notes/Revision Cards: All notes, textbooks, and study materials are strictly forbidden.
- Correction Fluid/Tape: Not allowed. Just neatly cross out any mistakes.
- Food & Snacks: Generally not permitted unless for a documented medical reason.
- Bags/Backpacks: Must be left in a designated area outside the exam hall.
Part 4: In The Exam Room – Game Plan
You're in. You're prepared. Now it's time to execute. Follow these steps to maximize your performance.
- Listen Carefully: Pay full attention to the invigilator's instructions. They are there to ensure fairness and will give crucial information.
- Use the 5 Minutes of Reading Time: This is pure gold. Do not start writing. Read the questions, understand what's being asked, choose your optional questions, and make a quick mental plan of attack. How will you allocate your time?
- Tackle Strategically: Start with a question you feel confident about. Securing those early marks builds momentum and calms the nerves. Leave the hardest questions for later, but don't forget them.
- Show Your Work: For subjects like Maths and Science, you can get partial marks for correct working even if the final answer is wrong. Don't just write the answer down.
- Keep an Eye on the Clock: Pace yourself. If you're stuck on one question, move on and come back to it if you have time. It's better to attempt all questions than to perfect one and run out of time.
- Review Your Answers: If you finish early, use every last minute. Read back through your answers. Did you answer the actual question? Can you add more detail? Are there any silly mistakes?
And finally, when time is up, put your pen down. Take a deep breath. You've done it. Leave the exam room quietly and avoid discussing the paper immediately. Go get some rest and prepare for the next one. You've got this!
