How to Attempt the 20 Mark Questions in IGNOU BSc Without Wasting Time
Introduction
20-mark questions in IGNOU B.Sc exams can make or break your chances of scoring distinction or just scraping through. Long-answer questions in IGNOU B.Sc exams are meant to check not just your knowledge but also your clarity, writing skills, and time management. Most students end up wasting time deliberating or writing too much, which leaves them with less time for the remaining paper.
This comprehensive guide deconstructs how to tackle 20-mark questions economically, efficiently, and confidently, without losing a minute.
Section 1: Understand the Nature of 20-Mark Questions
1.1 What Does a 20-Mark Question Really Want?
Contrary to 5 or 10-mark questions, which require accurate and precise answers, 20-mark questions anticipate:
- Depth of understanding
- Structured explanation
- Relevant examples and diagrams
- Logical flow
- Conceptual clarity
They don’t want all you know. They’re assessing how well you know how to organize and present knowledge.
1.2 Common Error: More Writing ≠ More Marks
It is a common myth amongst students that the more they write, the better their grades will be. That’s not the case. IGNOU examiners appreciate quality rather than quantity.
What makes the cut:
- Clarity
- Adequate headings and subheadings
- Logical presentation
- On-topic content
Not: - Prolonged paragraphs repeating points
- Chaotic dumping of information
- Irrelevant information to pad pages
Section 2: Prepare Smart Before the Exam
2.1 Concentrate on Frequent and High-Weightage Questions
IGNOU has a pattern-based paper-setting system.
- Go through old 5-year papers
- Identify most common 20-mark questions
- Prepare a list of repeat long-answer questions
This practice shortens your focus and spares revision time.
2.2 Prepare 5-7 Model Answers For Each Subject
Pen down model answers for probable 20-mark questions:
- IGNOU study material + your own learning
- Use examples, formulae, or diagrams where appropriate
- Follow a structure: Introduction → Main Body → Conclusion
These responses are templates for revision and in the exam room.
Section 3: Time Planning for the Exam Paper
3.1 Know Your Paper Structure
Suppose an average IGNOU B.Sc paper contains:
- 2 × 20-mark questions
- 3 × 10-mark questions
- 5 × 6-mark questions (or 5-mark in certain papers)
Total time: 3 hours (180 minutes)
Objective: Don’t take more than 35–40 minutes per 20-mark question.
3.2 Your Ideal Time Split
| Question Type | Marks | Ideal Time |
| —————— | ——— | ————– |
| 2 x Long Answers | 40 | 70–75 mins |
| 3 x Medium Answers | 30 | 50–55 mins |
| 5 x Short Answers | 30 | 45–50 mins |
| Total | 100 | 180 mins |
Having a structure prevents panic and bad pacing.
Section 4: Before Writing – Decode the Question Properly
4.1 Keywords in IGNOU Questions
Pay attention to these frequent verbs:
- Explain: Explain in detail with examples
- Discuss: Give both sides and conclude
- Compare: Point out similarities/differences
- Analyze: Break down and evaluate components
- Illustrate: Use examples/diagrams
Circle or underline these in the question paper to stay on track.
4.2 Use the 3-Minute Pre-Writing Rule
Before writing your answer:
- Jot down 4–5 key points in the margin or rough area
- Decide on headings/subheadings
- Plan any diagrams, if needed
This mental map keeps your writing focused and structured.
Section 5: Writing the Perfect 20-Mark Answer – Structure Is Key
5.1 Ideal Structure for a Long-Answer Question
1. Introduction (1 Paragraph)
- Define the concept or establish context
- Paraphrase the question in your own words
- Tell the reader what the answer will touch on (brief roadmap)
2. Main Body (3–5 Points/Paragraphs)
Each paragraph should address one main idea, with the use of:
- Headings or bullet points
- Examples or case studies
- Equations, facts, or research (if required)
- Diagrams or illustrations (well-labeled)
3. Conclusion (1 Paragraph) - Summarize key takeaways
- End with relevance or application
- Do not introduce new ideas
Section 6: Smart Writing Techniques to Save Time
6.1 Use Headings and Subheadings
This allows the examiner to quickly identify key points. Use:
- Bold/Underline for headings
- Bullet points for lists
- Numbered steps for sequences
6.2 Use Standard Phrases for Flow
Examples:
- “Let us now understand…”
- “This can be explained using…”
- “In contrast to…”
- “To summarize…”
- “As illustrated above…”
Such transitions have coherence and flow.
6.3 Don’t Repeat the Same Point
Don’t repeat the same thing. Don’t repeat yourself.
Avoid filler text. Make your points once — simply and briefly.
Section 7: Diagramming for Maximum Impact
7.1 When and Why to Use Diagrams
Diagrams are essential in topics such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Environmental Science.
- Draw if the question mentions or implies a process
- Use block diagrams, flowcharts, graphs, or labeled figures
7.2 Diagram Rules
- Always label clearly
- Put “Figure 1” or “Diagram A” underneath the picture
- Use it in the text: “As demonstrated in Figure 1…”
Diagrams earn you bonus marks — and conserve words.
Section 8: How to Stay Mentally Alert Throughout the Answer
8.1 Do Not Freak Out If You Forget an Argument
In case a thought escapes your head:
- Insert a half-page gap
- Move on to the next section
- Return if you remember it
Wasting 10 minutes on one forgotten point can derail your entire paper.
8.2 Take Micro Pauses
After completing a section, pause for 5 seconds:
- Stretch your fingers
- Take a deep breath
- Reset focus for the next section
Avoid burnout during the long-answer writing.
Section 9: How to Finish Strong
9.1 Time Yourself Midway
Set a checkpoint: “I should finish this answer by 10:15 AM.”
If you’re running over, jump to the end and finish it off.
9.2 Go Through the Answer in Last 2 Minutes
Check:
- Have you covered all the parts of the question?
- Are diagrams properly labeled?
- Spelling or formula mistakes?
Any minute adjustments can prevent loss of marks.
Section 10: Practice Techniques Before the Exam
10.1 Practice Previous Years’ 20-Mark Questions
One complete 20-mark answer at least every alternate day during the last month.
Time yourself. Attempt to complete each in 35 minutes or less.
10.2 Peer Review or Self-Assessment
Exchange answers with a friend or review your own:
- Is the answer well-organized?
- Is the main point evident?
- Are examples applicable?
- Is the writing readable?
Polishing written communication enhances confidence.
Conclusion
Acing a 20-mark question in IGNOU B.Sc is not about how much you know — it’s about how efficiently you write. With focused preparation, thoughtful planning, proper expression, and wise use of time, you can transform these questions from worrisome to scoring.
Always remember: IGNOU rewards clarity, structure, and understanding — not just length. Stick to the strategies discussed above, and you’ll not only save time but also maximize your marks with confidence.