Adaptive Exams: exam technique and top tips

What is an adaptive exam?

An adaptive exam adjusts the difficulty of questions based on a student's performance in real time. The test begins with questions of average difficulty. As students answer correctly, questions become harder. If they answer incorrectly, the questions become easier.

Because each question depends on the previous answer, every student’s experience is unique. Adaptive exams are always online and powered by algorithms that respond to each student’s ability level.

The ISEB Pre-tests and Quest Admissions tests are both adaptive exams

Top tips for success

1. Accuracy matters from the start
The first few questions are especially important. Early mistakes can lower the difficulty level of the test, meaning students may miss out on the higher-scoring questions that appear later. Encourage students to focus and avoid rushing at the beginning.

2. Check as you go
Students can’t go back to previous questions or skip ahead in adaptive exams. Each response shapes the next question. That’s why checking each answer before submitting is key. If a child tends to rush, build in strategies during practice to slow down and stay focused.

3. Use all available time
Finishing early won’t allow time for reviewing answers, because reviewing isn’t possible. Instead, encourage students to take their time on each question. Accuracy is more important than speed, and every question is an opportunity to move towards more challenging, higher-scoring content.

4. Use the process of elimination
Adaptive exams use multiple-choice questions. If a student feels stuck, they should eliminate clearly incorrect answers to improve their chances of making a smart guess. This is a valuable exam technique, especially under time pressure.

5. Expect the test to get harder
It’s completely normal for an adaptive exam to feel more difficult as it progresses. This is actually a good sign - it means the student is performing well. Preparing children for this shift helps them stay confident and calm on exam day.

6. Practise with mock tests
Mock tests are a brilliant way to prepare. They replicate the structure, timing and adaptive nature of the real exam. The key difference is that students can review their answers afterwards - giving them a valuable chance to learn from mistakes before the real thing.

To find out more about how mock tests can support your pupils, get in touch with us at schools@atomlearning.co.uk.