My tips and tricks to pass the driving theory test

Now, here is what everybody wants to find out. I believe this would be the most important post in this blog. I do hope that it would be able to help you to pass your tests.

Update: I came across this page that shows the passing rates of different schools and private lessons. Not trying to form an opinion here but the statistics should give you an idea of how others fare and perhaps spur you a bit to be more diligent.

Please understand that what I am going to share here is based solely on my own experience and ideas. It may or may not work for you. Feel free to feedback or adapt any of the pointers to suit your needs.



The theory test (Basic and Final) comprises of 50 multiple choice questions to be completed in 50min. It is done via a touch screen computer monitor similar to the practice and evaluation if you are a school candidate. You need 45/50 (or 90%) in order to pass the test. Take note that Final Theory test is only valid for 2 years. It is a prerequisite for you to book your practical test. Which means you need to pass your practical test within 2 years. Otherwise you need to retake the Final Theory test again (read my post on my account of the Final Theory test).

Preparation

• Complete the practice booklets: If you are a school candidate, try to finish all all the practice booklet before going for the evaluation (read my post on my account of the Final Theory practice and evaluation). I find the evaluation more difficult than the actual test, so if you manage to pass the evaluation, it is highly likely you'll be able pass the actual test - If you are a private candidates you can practise using the 480 Questions and Answers (for Basic Theory) and 600 Questions and Answers (for Final Theory). 
• Mobile app for practice: There are also some mobile apps available that you can use to practise using your mobile phone. The one I used was FTTLearner which is free which comes in handy when I'm on the move.
• Revision: For school candidate, take note that there will be a waiting time of at least 2 weeks until the earliest theory test slot from the time you pass your evaluation. In between, you may want to go for more practice for revision. 
• Rest: As do for other kind of examination, get ample of rest the night before

Taking the test

• Remember to bring your I/C (or other forms of approved identification). Failure to do so will result in you being barred from taking the test. There was a lady being rejected during my session for not bringing I/C. Even a photocopy one would not work.
• Safety first: In general, the questions are mostly related to safety. The correct answer normally reflects the safest action. If you are in doubt, choose the one safest one.
• Distraction: If possible, do not sit near to the entrance. It can be quite distracting (to me) as late candidates will keep walking pass you. For my case, there was an argument between a lady and the invigilators as she forgot to bring her I/C and the invigilators did not allow her to sit for the test. It is also distracting when some candidates finished the test early and start to leave the room halfway (unless you are one of them).
• Do not rush through the test to avoid careless mistakes. You have 1 min for each question. Some questions are simple which can be done in a few seconds. The time saved can be used on other more difficult questions. So pace yourself properly.