What Matters More?
Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) is a huge open university in the world, providing flexible education to millions of students. Though flexibility is its greatest strength, most learners tend to get confused about which one is more important – IGNOU assignments or term-end exams?
If you are studying for IGNOU courses, you must already be aware that both assignments and term-end examinations (TEE) contribute significantly to determining your final marks. But their weightage, evaluation technique, and importance are different.
In this step-by-step guide, we will discuss:
What are IGNOU assignments?
What are IGNOU term-end exams?
Difference between assignments and exams in IGNOU
Marks weightage in final results
Which one is more vital for success?
Mistakes students usually make
Tried-and-tested tips to score good in both
When you finish reading this article, you will have a clear idea about how to manage assignments and exams in order to deliver outstanding performance in IGNOU.
- What Are IGNOU Assignments?
Assignments are a part of each and every course in IGNOU. They are not a ritual but an obligatory academic necessity.
What Are IGNOU Assignments?
Essay answers to questions set in the assignment booklet.
Typically set based on your course material and study blocks.
Need to be submitted prior to the due date in order to be valid for term-end exams.
Why Are They Important?
Have 30% weightage in most courses (different in some programs).
Provide conceptual clarity by requiring you to write in your own words.
Support continuous learning rather than cramming at exam time. A requirement to take the term-end exams. Without submission, you will not receive your exam results.
Submission Guidelines
Assignments have to be typed in your own handwriting (typed or photocopied work is not accepted).
Submit on A4 ruled sheets, provide a cover page with proper information.
Submit at your study centre by the due date.
Maintain a receipt of submission for future reference.
Marks Distribution
Assignments typically account 30% of your final score. For instance:
Assignment Marks: 30%
Term-End Exam Marks: 70%
This implies that even if you are average in exams, scoring high on assignments can level your marks.
- IGNOU Term-End Examinations (TEE) – How They Work
While assignments reflect your continuous preparation, term-end exams are the true test of knowledge.
What Are Term-End Exams?
Held in June and December annually.
Conducted in offline (pen-paper) mode at designated canters.
Question papers cover the whole syllabus.
Why Are They Important?
Hold the maximum weightage (70%) on your final marks.
Assess your analytical, writing, and problem-solving abilities.
Determine your overall grade card performance.
Structure of Exams
Duration: 3 hours
Question Types: Short answers, long answers, case studies (as per the course).
Marks: Typically 100 marks, of which you need to score a minimum of 40% in order to pass.
Examination Tips
Makeover your study material and last year papers.
Practice time management – 3 hours may run fast.
Pay attention to presentation, organized answers, and examples.
- IGNOU Assignments vs. Term-End Exam: Key Differences
Aspect Assignments Term-End Exams (TEE)
Weightage 30% 70%
Mode Written, submitted offline Written, offline test
Preparation Needed Continuous study, open notes Intensive, syllabus-level
Deadline Have to submit prior to exam Twice a year (June/December)
Passing Requirement No passing marks (but required to submit) Minimum 40% needed
Flexibility Can write at home Strict exam timetable
Effect on Final Score Increases total marks Deciding factor
- Marks Weightage: Which Is More Important?
The most frequent query is: “Assignment or exam – what’s more important?”
Here’s the solution:
Assignments = 30%
Exams = 70%
So, term-end exams are more weightage for final scores. Yet, assignments hold equal significance since:
Without submitting, your exam marks will not be released.
Good assignment grades can make up for marginally lower performance in exams.
Example:
Component Marks Scored Weightage Final Marks Contribution Assignment 80/100 30% Exam:55/100 70% 38.5
Total-62.5 (Pass with good grade)
Thus, both are inevitable for overall success.
Neither the assignments nor the exams are passable without both.
There are common mistakes that students do, which lead to losing marks unnecessarily. Here are the most frequent of them:
Assignment Mistakes
Copy-pasting from internet or guides (plagiarism).
Submission after deadline.
Poor handwriting or missing answers.
Forgetting to include the cover page.
Exam Mistakes
Overlooking the exam pattern.
Assignments-only focus and ignoring syllabus.
Not managing time.
Leaving things incomplete because of poor preparation.
- Both Balancing for Maximum Marks
The key to acing IGNOU is strategically juggling both assignments and exams.
Assignment Strategy
- Plan ahead – don’t wait for the last moment.
- Answer in your own words for genuineness.
- Include diagrams, charts, and examples for higher marks.
- Organize your answers in a structured way (Introduction → Body → Conclusion).
Strategy for Exams
- Keep revising in small intervals rather than last minute cramming.
- Practice old year papers and guess papers.
- Employ the use of keywords and subtitles in answers.
- Attempt every question – even partial answers earn marks. Ideal Approach Utilize assignments as a revision aid for exams.
Treat assignments as practice to enhance writing speed and clarity.
Spend more time preparing for exams as it involves greater weightage. - Student Perspective: Which Is More Stressful
Assignments: Time-consuming due to deadlines, handwriting, and multiple submissions.
Exams: Time-consuming due to pressure of performance within 3 hours.
Students prefer assignments as time-consuming but exams as more uncertain. The truth is – both go hand in hand.
- Expert Opinion: What Matters More?
IGNOU teachers and guides recommend that:
Assignments lay your foundation – they help you grasp the subject.
Exams check your retention and analytical skill.
So, neither can be neglected. If you pay attention to one alone, your end grade will be affected.
- IGNOU Assignment vs. Term-End Exam FAQs
- Is it possible to clear IGNOU without submitting assignments?
No, assignments are mandatory. In case of non-submission, your exam results won’t be announced.
- How do I score well in assignments to achieve good grades?
Target 70+ assignment marks to maintain exam performance.
- What if I am unsuccessful in assignments but succeed in exams?
You will not be deemed “passed” yet unless you submit legitimate assignments.
- Which is simpler – assignments or exams?
Assignments are comparatively simple because you can write following study material. Exams need more preparation.
- How are IGNOU results calculated?
Final marks = (Assignment Score × 30%) + (Exam Score × 70%).
- Conclusion
So, what does count more in IGNOU – assignments or exams?
The obvious answer is: Both
Assignments (30%) keep you active and can improve your overall grade.
Exams (70%) weigh more heavily and determine your overall performance.
If you wish to succeed in IGNOU, you cannot neglect either. The intelligent approach is to get timely, well-crafted assignments submitted and prepare strategically for exams. This equilibrium will ensure improved results and a hassle-free learning experience.