Violet, a second-year medical student at Monash University, shares expert VCE Chemistry Exam preparation tips and strategies for mastering the exam. Graduating with a top Chemistry study score (Raw 47), Violet provides valuable insights to help you succeed in the VCE Chemistry Exam.
I’m Violet, a second-year medical student from Monash University. I graduated in 2022 with a Raw 47 in VCE Chemistry. In this blog, I will be introducing the structure, some common types of questions to expect in the VCE Chemistry Exam, and sharing practical study tips that I hope will make your exam preparation easier.
VCE Chemistry Exam Structure
The VCE Chemistry Exam 2024 consists of 120 marks and is divided into two sections:
- Section A – Multiple Choice (30 marks)
- Section B – Short Answer (90 marks)
Your goal is to maximise marks in both sections by managing time wisely, avoiding common mistakes, and practising with VCE Chemistry past papers.
Section A – Multiple Choice Questions
The first 30 marks come from multiple choice questions. These questions cover nearly all areas of study. Since each question is worth one mark, I would recommend 1–1.5 minutes per question.
Tips for Section A:
- Use reading time wisely to think through answers.
- Apply elimination when you are unsure.
- Skip difficult questions and return later.
- Annotate the booklet if time allows—it helps with checking.
For more support with exam strategies, check out our VCE Chemistry program, where we break down exam-style questions step by step.
Section B – Short Answer Questions
In Section B, the questions add up to a total of 90 marks. In past exams, the number of questions varies but is mostly 9 to 10. If you’re aiming for a study boost, practising VCE Chemistry sample questions is one of the most effective ways to prepare.
Calculations
There will always be calculation questions, testing skills in stoichiometry, Faraday’s law, energy, and calorimetry.
- Memorise formulas and use units as a guide.
- Keep exact values during working; only round final answers.
- Show all steps to earn partial marks.
Scientific Investigation Questions
Every VCE Chemistry Exam includes at least one investigation question. You’ll need to identify variables, write hypotheses, analyse data, and evaluate validity and reliability.
Extended Response – High-Score Tips
This final question is often worth many marks. Topics can include fuels, analytical techniques, food molecules, and electrolysis.
- Read all dot points carefully.
- Structure answers clearly.
- Support with chemical concepts and examples.
General Exam Tips for VCE Chemistry
- Plan your response before writing—structure matters.
- If stuck, reread the material, then move on if needed.
- Highlight key words, command terms, units, and mark allocations to stay focused.
Using Reading Time Wisely
You get 15 minutes of reading time in the VCE Chemistry Exam. I recommend:
- Skim Section B and allocate time per question.
- Read the extended response and brainstorm ideas.
- Mentally attempt multiple choice questions.
Using the Data Book
The data book is an extremely handy tool in the final exam. Familiarise yourself with its constants, formulas, and structures. Knowing roughly where to find information saves valuable time.
Final Thoughts
These are just my recommendations. Everyone studies differently, so find strategies that suit you. When practising past papers, try different approaches to discover what works best for your preparation.
Thanks for reading, and I wish you the best of luck in the VCE Chemistry Exam 2024!