MEO exams - INDIA
One of the most difficult stage in a seafaring career for most of us are our MEO CL-IV, CL-II & CL-1 examinations . A total of 13 theory papers , and 13 oral examinations spread over a period of time ( a decade for most people ) is one tortuous journey and it does manage to frustrate the hell out of many of us . Thanks god as it has been a journey that is almost near completion for me and just awaiting the final step . Looking back at the written and orals and the stress me, my friends etc have gone through is nothing short of nerve wracking at times . Having to stay ashore for completion of exams and getting hold of our higher licenses , most times applying for COC and rushing back to sea thanks to a dangerously depleted bank account .
Just a few observations wrt to the exams I have made over the course of my exam career .:) , I can quite confidently say they have worked for me - Cleared all theory papers in my first attempt itself , no splitting of papers etc, all papers were given together in the first attempt itself.
I am just mentioning some Really basic stuff which helped me a lot in addition to the studies to help me clear my exams.These points are mentioned in any forum where exams are discussed . These apply mostly to class 2 and 1 exams as class 4 exams have changed from what it used to be earlier on .
Attempt all the 6 questions as required : Many people say that the answers should be in the numerical order , I can confidently say that is not the case . Write the answers you know best right at the beginning , it helps us with the flow in writing and thought process and will be of immense help when dealing with answers we are not so well prepared ( if that situation arises ) . Do not leave any question unattended , even if you know a part of the answer it might bring in some marks . REMEMBER, this is not an exam where marks are published - only pass or fail is what matters.
Timing - Do not waste too much time on any answer .Even if we know an answer completely and it will take 40 plus minutes and run in to 5 or 6 pages probably not a good idea . There wont be sufficient time at the end for writing 6 answers , any less than the required number of questions attempted ; we can go ahead and start preparing for the next attempt.Write and practice while studying as we unlike in our previous college or school days are not used to writing pages upon pages and that too at a quick pace on a regular basis and this will be felt while writing the exam. So make written notes as it will help with the writing practice and the hand will not tire when we write the real exam.
Headings / Underlining- Underline all important technical terms in an answer , do not over do it as titwill loose its objective.Headings for different sub sections in an answer . This will help the examiner in identifying key words even if we do not have a handwriting that will win us prizes . It also shows we know the terms .
Figures - In an answer use figures to explain , they need not be text book figures ( unless that is non negotiable in case of a particular answer ) , make own figures and explain . It HELPS A LOT . try using a ruler and pencil while making figures , its worth the effort .
Spacing - Spacing between answers - as per question paper start the next question on a fresh page. in case that was not done still it is excused if sufficient spacing is given. Spacing between imprtant points in an answer will make reading it easier for the valuer .
Pages- A few extra sheets always helps. :).
Handwriting- At least in the beginning be at our best selves. They don't say" first impression is the best impression " for nothing !
Once the exams are over and we have done our bit, stop fretting about the result ,Think positive , rather don't think at all till the results are gona be announced ;unless we are sure that we wont pass ( wrote less no of qstns , incorrect answers etc).
Even if a few questions seem tough or new and was not prepared well , don't lose hope inside the hall, tackle the questions we know best and let the answers flow.Once we settle in we will most probably be able to remember something about the answers of those questions and attempt them , make sure all the 6 questions are answered .
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