#5
Timing strategies by question type
AQA English · Skills
Key steps (method)
- Decide your target mark and write a time plan before you start.
- Spend a fixed amount of time on:
- reading the question + highlighting + micro-plan
- writing (main marks)
- checking/editing (especially for SPaG)
- If you’re stuck, write a simpler paragraph with a clear quote + AO2 zoom rather than freezing.
Common mistakes
- Spending too long reading/annotating and running out of writing time.
- Writing one huge paragraph and leaving others half-finished.
- Not leaving time to check SPaG (easy marks left on the table).
- Over-planning (a plan should be quick and usable).
Support videos
- AQA English exam timing search: https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=aqa+gcse+english+exam+timing