How to Review Incorrect Questions So You Do Not Repeat Them

The review is where a mock test pays off. A good one asks four questions of every wrong answer.

The four questions

1. Why did I get it wrong? Concept, formula, calculation, misreading or time pressure.
2. What is the correct method? Solve it again, from scratch, without looking at the solution.
3. Is there a faster route? Compare your method with the explanation.
4. How will I avoid this next time? Write one specific action.

Prioritise

You will not have time to analyse everything in depth. Spend most effort on mistakes that repeat across tests and on questions in topics that carry many marks. One-off slips only need a quick note.

Include the lucky guesses

A right answer reached by guessing is a hidden gap. Mark such questions during the test and review them like wrong ones.

Close the loop

Record your findings in an error log and retest the topic within a week. For a full analysis of your results, read how to analyse mock test results. When you are ready to practise again, find a fresh paper in practice tests.