I would like to know what you usually do first thing with the manuscript paper in the theory exam. I think I read somewhere some of you draw a keyboard - which makes sense. Any other stuff, that is helpful for you to visualize?

Do you have to deliver the manuscript paper along with the exam paper or can you keep it?

Can you get more or are you just allowed one piece?

(Sorry, for those stupid questions, but I didn't need it in my first two exams as I did quite good (distinction) with the stuff I had in my head - but I think those times are over now with my next exam).

A sketch of a piano keyboard (two octaves as it can come in useful for working out intervals for example) and possibly the circle of fifths. You can also use it to work out answers to any other questions in the paper such as those involving transposition.The manuscript paper should be handed in with your exam paper but whatever you write on it won't get marked - it just gets thrown away at the end of the session I believe.Depends whether the invigilators decide to give you another sheet if you ask nicely - the manuscript paper is double-sided anyway, so just something to bear in mind.

Car Expert

In addition to (or instead of) the circle of 5ths some people find that writing out the key signatures helps too.
It depends on how much you feel you REALLY know well and how much you think you'll want a few written reminders.

I don't usually write anything on mine until I need to work out things. Then it is usually a keyboard so that I can count out the intervals. I also used to do a chart for transposing.

In my theory exams I have never had any problems getting any more manuscript paper, I just put up my hand and asked if I could have another sheet of paper please.

You have to hand in the manuscript paper at the end of the exam, along with your paper, like car expert says, does not get marked.

Good luck with your exam, what grade are you doing, and I take it you are doing it next month?

ET

Hi Cambiata - would you care to expand on the "chord card"? I will be taking grade 6 next year, and can do with all the tips that are around!

Thank you!

It looks like a far more organised method than I have been using - just an A4 pad writing down note names and the triads formed from them, in whatever key I am studying at the time. Recognising pivot chords easily must be useful!
Steve

Some time ago, I sent an email to ABRSM and asked about their policy regarding supply of paper... Here is the reply from Administrative Assistant, Theory Office.

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Thank you for your email.

For grades 1-5 we provide candidates with a two sided A5 sheet of manuscript paper, which is the recommended amount of rough working paper for these exams. Candidates are allowed to do any additional rough working on their actual exam paper if they wish to do so, simply crossing through it to indicate it is not part of their answer.
We provide the exam invigilators with a limited amount of spare manuscript paper, so if a candidate needs an extra sheet, they can put up their hand and request one. The invigilator will be able to provide the candidate with an additional sheet provided their spare sheets have not already been used.
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When I did past papers at home with my daughter, we practised with A5 double sided paper. You somehow learn to cope with A5.... I wonder what they provide for G6. Does anybody know?
Good luck to every one taking the theory exams in November!

Thank you for the info, cambiata. I am thinking of trying to do G6 next year , but teaching myself, so I will see if I can manage. Thank you also for the 'chord card' info.
HanonMum