How Can I Avoid Overthinking and Second-Guessing Answers?

Overthinking and second-guessing are common challenges faced by exam-takers, especially in competitive exams like CLAT. These habits can waste valuable time, lead to unnecessary stress, and lower your accuracy. However, with the right strategies and mindset, you can overcome these tendencies and approach your answers with confidence. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you avoid overthinking and second-guessing during exams.

1. Trust Your First Instinct

One of the most effective ways to avoid second-guessing is to trust your first instinct. Research has shown that initial answers are often correct because they stem from your intuition and preparation. Overthinking typically occurs when you start doubting yourself or trying to overanalyse the question. Unless you notice a clear mistake, stick with your first answer and move on. Training yourself to trust your instincts takes practice, but it can significantly improve your accuracy.

2. Read Questions Carefully

Misinterpreting the question is one of the leading causes of second-guessing. To avoid this, ensure that you read each question carefully and understand it fully before answering. Pay attention to keywords like always, never, not, and except, as these can change the meaning of the question. Also, ensure you understand what the question is asking—whether it’s about identifying a main idea, applying a legal principle, or solving a mathematical problem. A clear understanding of the question reduces the likelihood of overanalysing it later.

3. Eliminate Obvious Wrong Answers

When dealing with multiple-choice questions, start by eliminating options that are clearly incorrect. Narrowing down the choices helps you focus on the most plausible answers. If you’ve already eliminated two or three options, you’re less likely to second-guess your decision. This process of elimination not only saves time but also boosts confidence in your chosen answer.

4. Manage Time Effectively

Time pressure can amplify overthinking. If you spend too much time on one question, you may start doubting your answer or rushing through the rest of the exam. To avoid this, allocate a specific amount of time to each section and each question. For example:

• Spend less than a minute on straightforward questions.
• Reserve extra time for questions requiring more thought, such as legal reasoning scenarios or data interpretation.

If you find yourself stuck on a question, mark it and move on. Return to it later with a fresh perspective if time permits. This approach ensures you don’t waste time overanalysing and allows you to answer more questions accurately.

5. Practice with Mock Tests

Mock tests are invaluable in overcoming overthinking and second-guessing. Simulating exam conditions helps you:

• Practice sticking to your first answer.
• Recognise patterns in your decision-making process.
• Develop confidence in your instincts.

Review your mock tests to identify instances where you second-guessed yourself and analyse whether your initial answer was correct. If you notice a pattern of unnecessary changes, make a conscious effort to trust your first choice in future tests.

6. Focus on Accuracy Over Quantity

It’s better to attempt fewer questions with high accuracy than to attempt all questions with numerous errors. Overthinking often arises from trying to answer every single question, even those you’re unsure about. Instead, focus on ensuring that the questions you do attempt are answered correctly. If negative marking is in place, this strategy becomes even more critical.

7. Avoid Dwelling on Difficult Questions

Spending too much time on a challenging question can lead to a cycle of overthinking and self-doubt. If you’re unsure about a question, don’t let it derail your progress. Mark the question for review and move on to easier ones. This approach allows you to maintain momentum and ensures you have enough time to revisit difficult questions later.

8. Use Logical Reasoning and Elimination Techniques

Approach questions systematically by using logic and reasoning:

• Identify the argument or principle in reasoning questions.
• Break down complex scenarios into simpler components.
• Use elimination to narrow down your options.

Relying on structured thinking instead of gut feelings or emotional reactions reduces the chances of second-guessing and leads to more confident answers.

9. Control Exam-Day Anxiety

Overthinking is often fueled by stress and anxiety. To stay calm during the exam:

• Practice deep breathing exercises to reduce tension.
• Focus on one question at a time instead of worrying about the overall result.
• Remind yourself of the preparation you’ve done and trust your abilities.

Maintaining a calm mindset helps you approach questions with clarity and prevents unnecessary second-guessing.

10. Use the Mark-and-Review Strategy

For questions you’re unsure about, use the “mark-and-review” feature (if available) to flag them for later. This allows you to move forward without spending excessive time on one question. When you revisit these questions, you may find it easier to choose the correct answer with a clearer mind and less pressure.

11. Avoid Overanalysing Options

Multiple-choice questions often include distractors designed to confuse you. Avoid overanalysing the choices by sticking to what the question asks and the information provided. If an answer choice introduces new information or seems too far-fetched, it’s likely incorrect. Trust the evidence in the passage or scenario rather than reading too deeply into it.

12. Learn from Past Mistakes

Reviewing past mock tests or practice questions can help you identify patterns of overthinking or second-guessing. For example:

• Did you change correct answers to incorrect ones frequently?
• Were your initial instincts often right?

Understanding these patterns helps you build confidence in your decision-making process and reduces the urge to second-guess.

13. Stay Positive

Positive self-talk can help counteract the tendency to overthink. Remind yourself:

• “I’ve prepared for this.”
• “My first answer is likely correct.”
• “I’ll trust my instincts and move forward.”

A positive mindset keeps you focused and confident, reducing the chances of unnecessary doubt.

Conclusion

Avoiding overthinking and second-guessing during exams requires trust in your preparation, effective time management, and a calm approach. By practising mock tests, focusing on accuracy, and using logical reasoning, you can minimise these tendencies and perform more confidently. Remember, clarity and focus are your best allies on exam day. Trust yourself, trust your preparation, and tackle the exam with determination.