What You Need to Know About Computer-Based Tests (CBT)
WAEC is switching to Computer-Based Tests (CBT)—which means you’ll be taking your exams on a computer instead of using paper and pen. In simple terms: if you don’t know how to use a computer, you won’t be able to take the exam!
What Exactly is CBT?
CBT stands for Computer-Based Test. Just like it sounds, it means answering exam questions on a computer rather than with a pen and paper. If you’ve heard of the JAMB CBT exam, it’s the same format.
Don't Panic! You Can Master This
Feeling nervous is normal if it’s your first time taking a computer-based exam. But don’t worry—you can learn everything you need!
As I’ve said before, CBT isn’t rocket science—even if you’re new to computers. While it might seem like a big challenge now, this guide will walk you through the basics. Stick with me, and you’ll be ready to pass with confidence.
If you're looking for more tips, including how your teachers and parents can support you, or if you’re a parent wondering how to help your child, check out my earlier post for a full guide here: What CBT Means for Students, Parents & Schools
How the WAEC Interface Would Look (Objectives & Theory)
Objective Interface – Similar to JAMB
WAEC has announced that it will be working with JAMB for the objective part of the exam. So, the interface is expected to look very similar to what JAMB uses. It will be simple, user-friendly, and easy to understand—even if you're not very familiar with computers.
Here’s what to expect:
- Monitor: A flat screen where questions and answer options will be displayed clearly.
- Navigation: You'll find buttons like Next and Previous to move between questions. These buttons may be located at the bottom or the side of the screen, depending on the device used. There will also be a Submit button and a Question Summary panel showing which questions you’ve answered or skipped.
- Timer: A countdown timer will be visible to show you how much time is left, helping you manage your time properly.
- Subject/Section Indicator: If you're writing both objective and theory parts at the same time, there will be an indicator to show which part you're currently on.
- Calculator: For subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry, a simple calculator will be available on the screen.
 |
| JAMB CBT exam interface on a computer screen |
Theory Interface – Using Digital Slate
For the theory section, WAEC plans to introduce a digital slate. This means candidates will be provided with a tablet-like computer or a touchscreen system where they’ll write with a stylus (digital pen). This is especially useful for subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry that involve diagrams and symbols.
For subjects that don't require drawing, like English, where you write essays or letters, there will be a section on the screen showing the question and a typing area where you can write your answers using a keyboard.
 |
| WAEC CBT interface showing a mathematics question on a laptop screen and a hand writing out the solution on a separate digital slate. |
Computer Skills You’ll Need
Unlike JAMB, which only uses the computer for objective questions, WAEC will use it for objectives, theory, and possibly practicals.
This means you’ll need to learn more than just how to click on answers or move the mouse. You’ll also need to understand how to:
- Use a stylus to write or draw on a digital slate.
- Type answers into a text box.
- Navigate between different sections of the exam.
- Manage your time using the on-screen timer.
So even if you’re already used to taking JAMB-style computer exams, WAEC’s setup will require some extra skills.
What aspects of computer skills can a student learn for WAEC CBT?
To prepare for the WAEC CBT, students should focus on developing skills in the following computer aspects:
- Operating a Mouse: This includes basic actions like pointing, clicking, and dragging, which are fundamental for navigating the exam interface and selecting answers.
- Keyboard Proficiency: Students will need to type answers accurately and efficiently, especially for the theory sections, which may require essays or detailed responses. This also involves knowing how to use common keyboard functions like backspace, enter, and shift.
- Touchscreen and Stylus Use: For the theory sections that involve a digital slate, students must learn how to write, draw diagrams, and input symbols using a stylus on a touchscreen device. This skill is crucial for subjects like Mathematics, Physics, and Chemistry.
- Interface Navigation: Understanding how to move through the exam, including using "Next" and "Previous" buttons, jumping to specific questions, and recognizing indicators for different exam sections (e.g., objective vs. theory).
- On-screen Tool Utilization: Familiarity with any built-in tools, such as an on-screen calculator, will be important for relevant subjects.
- Time Management with Digital Timers: Students should practice monitoring and pacing themselves according to the countdown timer displayed on the screen.
- Submission Process: Knowing how to correctly submit their exam after completion.
The shift to CBT for WAEC exams marks a new era for candidates. While it introduces the need for basic computer skills, including digital writing and efficient navigation, these are easily mastered with practice. Embrace the change, familiarize yourself with the interfaces, and you'll be well-prepared to succeed in the computer-based WAEC examination