A question about exam problems for Engineering students

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the classification of exam problems into two categories: predictable pattern-like problems and unique problems. Predictable problems are those that follow a recognizable pattern, making them easier to solve as they often involve similar questions with altered values. In contrast, unique problems present challenges such as incomplete data, multiple equations, and particularly ambiguously worded questions, which complicate the understanding of the problem's requirements. The original poster seeks insights on how others perceive and tackle these types of problems, especially under the time constraints of competitive exams. Strategies for addressing these challenges are of particular interest, as well as how to effectively interpret ambiguous numerical questions that may have multiple meanings.
newbie1127
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Summary:: hi everyone,
i have always wondered whenever i am solving problems in preparation for exams, if other people see the problems that i encounter the same way i do. so, i decided i would write a post and collect perspectives.

the way i see it exam problems can be classified in two groups:
1) the predictable patttern-like problems
2) the unique problems

the first kind of problem is a pattern-like i say because, during preparation i come acrosss questions that appear the same with their values changed and i understand what the question is asking and the solution is easier to think about.

the second kind of problem is like a problem that is out of the ordinary, the questions will have some unique goal or it'll have sometimes incomplete data and it'll be multiple equations to complete the data required to obtain the solution. which is ok but, there is one more type of question that comes under this category and it's the most difficult for me, the ambiguously worded questions, in these, for me the goal is the only thing that is easy to understand, i can't imagine if the figure is vertical or horizontal and the postion of the attributes and how to approach for a solution.

i was wondering if other people encounter problems like these and think of them in a similar way and how to approach problems like these especially in competitive exams where time per question is very limited.

i am interested to know what strategies and things other people do to counter these and other challenging aspects of competitive exams.

thanks.
 
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When you refer to a figure being "vertical or horizontal and the postion of the attributes and how to approach for a solution", are you talking about problems of resistance of materials, like in your previous threads?
 
Lnewqban said:
When you refer to a figure being "vertical or horizontal and the postion of the attributes and how to approach for a solution", are you talking about problems of resistance of materials, like in your previous threads?
nah just any numerical question that can be deciphered into multiple meanings.
 
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