Introduction
When exams are around the corner, many IB Computer Science students ask: “If I just do past papers, is that enough to get a 7?” Past papers are an excellent revision tool because they show you the format, style, and difficulty of exam questions. However, relying on them alone is risky. The IB tests not only your ability to answer familiar questions but also your understanding of concepts, pseudocode, and applications in new scenarios.
In this article, we’ll explore the role of past papers in IB Computer Science revision, their limitations, and how to use them alongside RevisionDojo resources for the best results.
Quick Start Checklist
- ✅ Use past papers to practice timing and question style.
- ✅ Don’t rely only on memorization — IB exams often twist questions.
- ✅ Combine past papers with syllabus-aligned notes for full coverage.
- ✅ Review mark schemes to learn examiner expectations.
- ✅ Fill in knowledge gaps with RevisionDojo’s concise guides.
Why Past Papers Are Valuable
- Familiarity with Format
You’ll know how questions are structured and what command terms like describe, explain, evaluate really mean. - Time Management Practice
Past papers help you pace yourself under timed exam conditions. - Application of Knowledge
They test your ability to apply algorithms, pseudocode, and databases in problem contexts. - Feedback from Mark Schemes
Comparing your answers with official mark schemes teaches you how examiners award marks.
Why Past Papers Alone Aren’t Enough
- Curriculum Updates
The IB syllabus changes, meaning old papers may not cover new topics (like machine learning in 2025). - False Confidence
Memorizing answers won’t help when IB rephrases questions or changes contexts. - Neglecting Theory
Students who only do past papers often miss weaker theory areas that rarely appear. - No IA Preparation
Past papers don’t help with the Internal Assessment, which is 20–30% of your grade.
The Best Way to Use Past Papers
- Start Early
Don’t save past papers for the final week — use them throughout the year. - Mix Topics
Do random sets of questions, not just your strongest areas. - Self-Marking
Use mark schemes and examiner reports to refine your answers. - Identify Weaknesses
Keep a list of mistakes and review notes to close gaps.
How RevisionDojo Complements Past Papers
RevisionDojo provides:
- Concise notes for all syllabus topics, filling in gaps left by past paper practice.
- Algorithm guides in pseudocode with step-by-step breakdowns.
- IA resources for the project component.
- Practice questions aligned with the 2025 syllabus updates.
This ensures you don’t just practice old material — you master what’s relevant now.
FAQs
Q: Can I get a 7 just by doing past papers?
Unlikely. Past papers improve exam technique, but without a strong theory foundation, you’ll struggle with new or rephrased questions.
Q: How many past papers should I do?
Aim for at least 5–7 full papers per subject level. Focus on quality over quantity — review mistakes thoroughly.
Q: Which is better — doing all past papers once or a few papers multiple times?
A mix. Start by doing many papers for exposure, then revisit the hardest ones to improve your weak areas.
Conclusion
Past papers are one of the most powerful revision tools for IB Computer Science — but they are not enough on their own. To secure a 7, you need to balance exam practice with theory review, pseudocode mastery, and IA preparation.
With RevisionDojo’s focused notes and algorithm guides, you’ll fill in knowledge gaps while using past papers to sharpen your exam skills, giving you the best chance at a top score.
