UTME/JAMB Past Questions vs Textbooks: The Better Study Strategy?

As the JAMB/UTME is fast approaching, you might wonder how best to maximize your study time and get the best result. While some students feel studying with JAMB past questions is the way to go as it goes straight to the point and allows time for more practice, they might also wonder if they need to include the comprehensive coverage textbooks offer.

Your choice of study materials will have a massive impact on your performance in the exam, so it is essential to consider all factors before making a decision. In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of both study methods, provide some suggestions based on individual learning styles, and help you make an informed decision.

Let’s get started!

What are Jamb Past Questions?

JAMB past questions are previous exam questions from years back which have been collated and compiled into a document for students to use when preparing for the exam.

These questions are beneficial in practice, providing insight into the pattern and types of questions typically asked on the exam. The questions come with answers and explanations so students can grasp the concepts quickly and accurately.

What are Jamb Textbooks?

JAMB-recommended textbooks are recommended by Jamb and are designed to help students understand the syllabus and prepare for the upcoming exam. These textbooks provide comprehensive coverage of all topics in the JAMB syllabus. They provide more detailed information on each topic than what is typically available in past questions.

Studying from textbooks requires more time and effort, but it also provides a deeper understanding of concepts which can help you when attempting questions.

The Debate between Focusing on JAMB Past Questions or Textbooks

For some students, the debate between studying with JAMB past questions or textbooks comes down to – Should I opt for the shorter and more focused option of studying with past question papers or the more comprehensive approach of studying with books? Both options come with their own pros and cons, so it’s important to consider all factors before deciding.

Pros and Cons of Using JAMB Past Questions

Pros

• Familiarity with JAMB Exam Format: By studying past questions, you get familiar with the exam format and frequently asked questions. You can also identify common mistakes and learn from them. Also, you’ll walk into the exam knowing what questions to expect.
• Practice Time Management: Studying with JAMB past questions helps you manage your time better. You can time yourself while attempting each question, preparing you for the time pressure in the exam hall.
• Insight into Frequently Asked Questions: JAMB past questions give you an idea of the type of questions frequently asked in the exam. So you’ll know to pay enough attention to these topics when studying.
• Easier to Understand: Unlike textbooks, where you need to read through long pages of text to understand a concept fully, JAMB past questions and answers are straight to the point. It’s one thing to read and another to be able to apply what you read in the exam hall. Preparing with JAMB questions focuses more on application, which is a more efficient way to prepare since that is the primary goal of studying.
• Cost-Effective & Easy to Access: JAMB past questions are relatively inexpensive and can be easily accessed online and offline. All you need to do is download the JAMB CBT practice software, and you’re ready. The best part is you’ll get access to all past questions and other study features that’ll help you manage your time properly and improve your study productivity.

>>>Read More: Score 300+ in JAMB/UTME with the best JAMB CBT practice software

On the flip side, there are also some disadvantages to relying on JAMB past questions below.

Downsides

• Limited Scope of Coverage: Too much focus on past questions could mean missing out on some topics in the syllabus that might not be in the past questions.  Therefore, studying with past questions alone might not be enough to pass the exam.
• Potential for Over-Reliance on Past Questions: Studying with JAMB past questions and answers alone can make you over-rely on the questions and answers without trying to understand the concepts behind them. Some students even go as far as cramming the answers to some questions and getting disappointed when the question comes out in another format in the exam because they don’t fully understand the concept.

Pros and Cons of Using Textbooks

Textbooks, on the other hand, provide comprehensive coverage of the syllabus. Some advantages of studying with textbooks include the following:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Textbooks give you a broader perspective covering all the topics and concepts.  They also provide detailed explanations and examples, which can help you better understand the concepts. 
• Opportunity to Develop a Deeper Understanding of Concepts: Textbooks provide a detailed explanation of concepts, which can help you gain a deeper understanding of the subject. This could benefit the exam, as you can apply your vast knowledge of the concepts to solve complex questions. 

However, there are also some disadvantages to studying with textbooks, including:

• Time-consuming to Cover All the Material: Covering the entire syllabus with textbooks can be time-consuming and might not be feasible if you have limited time before the exam.
• Difficulty in Determining What Material Is Most Important: Textbooks cover a vast amount of information, making it difficult to determine what material is most important.
• Limited Exposure to JAMB Exam Format: Textbooks do not provide exposure to the JAMB exam format and offer no guidance to preparing for the exam’s time pressure and question format. You’ll have to figure out that on your own.

Which Should You Study With?

The decision on which study method to use depends on various factors, including your learning style, the time available for studying, and familiarity with the subject matter. If you prefer a hands-on approach and need to practice time management skills, JAMB past questions might be your better study method. However, using textbooks can be a better option if you prefer a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and have more time to study. If you need to become more familiar with the exam format, it is recommended to use JAMB past questions to become familiar with the question style and structure.

Our Verdict: Combine Both Study Methods

While each study method has advantages and disadvantages, combining both approaches for adequate JAMB preparation is essential. Studying with JAMB past questions and textbooks will provide a balance of familiarity with the exam format, a comprehensive understanding of concepts, and access to the latest information. Combining both methods can help you prepare adequately for the exam and increase your chances of success.

Wrapping Up!

JAMB past questions and textbooks are both effective study methods for JAMB preparation, and the decision on which one to use should depend on your learning style, time available for studying, and familiarity with the subject matter. Combining both methods is recommended to get the most out of your JAMB preparation. Remember that the key to success in JAMB is not only about what study method you use but also about the effort and consistency you put into your preparation. Good luck with your JAMB preparations!