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Advice based on personal exp. and others’ stories.

1. There’s no such thing as 100% ready. Marine Engineering knowledge spans very wide and deep, and not everyone learns at the same pace. Do the best you can, and accept the result gracefully.
2. Usually everyone is stressed about failing when they can’t answer any question (or answer wrongly). If the question is safety-based, then the outcome is inevitable (and not negotiable). However if you can’t answer for other questions, honestly state “sir I’m sorry, I will go back find out and come back to you soon.”. That shows your commitment and sincerity. Examiners can instantly recognise when you’re not sure or trying to pretend you know the answer. Don’t try, as that will spoil the rest of the exam.
3. Depending on the examiner, some might ask 1 question and wait for you to answer before moving on. Or he might ask several questions together, wait for you to copy them down and answer them all afterwards.
4. Give yourself about 10 seconds or so to think before rushing to answer. Double check the answers in your mind, or quickly write them down in point form before presenting to the examiner.

[icedcappucino]

More advice from others:

1. Try to focus more on holding the conversation confidently with the examiner. Which also means concentrate less on thinking is the answer right or wrong.
2. When going for COC 5, the prior experience is just Engine Cadet so the amount of knowledge and experience will naturally be limited. When answering, it’s good enough when the definition more or less is correct. Holding conversation is slightly harder.
3. The examiner may start the oral exam by asking for a short self-introduction, so prepare a professional self-introduction in advance.

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