Exam Cheating: Strategies, Techniques, and Realities

Abbreviations should be obvious or well-known. Avoid using ambiguous abbreviations that could be misinterpreted. For example, don't use "the study com..." where "com" could mean communication, computation, or combination.

Ensure your notes are legible. If you have to bring your notes very close to your face to read them, the teacher could notice. Write small, but readable.

Write on both sides of the paper to conserve resources.

Hiding Places

Sweatshirts with pockets are a good place to hide notes. Calculators can also be used to cover notes (though some teachers check calculators). Notes can also be taped under the table or gum, or under your seat (the latter requires practice to avoid being caught). The goal is to have easy access to the notes while keeping them hidden in case of emergency.

Techniques for Removal

After the exam, you'll need to dispose of the evidence. Here are some methods:

• If you're wearing a hooded sweater or long-sleeved shirt, you can hide the notes in your sleeve, but do so discreetly.
• If the room is dirty, you can crumple the notes into a ball and throw them on the ground.
• If you wear a watch, you can hide notes there (the watch is also a good hiding place).
• If you're feeling daring, you can eat the notes (difficult, but not impossible).
• If you used extra sheets for calculations, you can throw the notes away with those pages. However, be cautious, as teachers sometimes check the trash.

Whichever method you choose, destroy the notes thoroughly to prevent them from being used as evidence against you. Break them up, burn them (but don't flush them down the toilet to save water)!

Myths and Realities

Size Does Matter!

FALSE! A small accordion note can be easily discovered, while a letter-size sheet can be hidden among the test papers and go unnoticed. The key is your skill in using the notes, which develops with practice.

Using Accordion Notes is Cheating!

TRUE! However, creating them can be a good study technique. Sometimes, the act of making the notes helps you remember the information, and you don't even need to use them during the exam.

Best Places to Cheat

The best location for cheating depends on the teacher's vigilance. If the teacher sits at their desk and observes from there, it's best to sit at the opposite end of the room.

If the teacher walks around, sitting by the wall is recommended, as it reduces the angles from which they can see you.

Some teachers patrol the back of the room, which is risky because they can see everything without you knowing if you're being watched. The best strategy is to watch them as closely as they watch you.

If You Get Caught

If you're caught in the act, don't argue with the teacher or admit guilt unless directly asked and you're certain you've been noticed. If you can eliminate the evidence without being seen, do so. Arguing with the teacher will only make the situation worse. If asked to hand in the exam and leave the room, comply without arguing; it's better to leave with dignity.

If you have time during the test, study a little. After things have calmed down, approach the teacher in a friendly manner, apologize, and demonstrate your knowledge by answering some questions. While you may not get a second chance, you might receive a less severe punishment.

I have never been caught cheating, so I cannot offer more advice on this topic.