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5 Common Mistakes Students Make in Actuarial Paper B (Excel/R)
Struggling with Paper B despite acing the theory in Paper A? You’re not alone.
Every exam cycle, we see brilliant students lose marks—not due to lack of knowledge, but because of simple, avoidable mistakes in the practical component of CM1 and CS1.
Actuarial Paper B tests your ability to apply theory using tools like Microsoft Excel (CM1) and R Programming (CS1). And the difference between passing and failing often comes down to your exam technique, not your understanding.
Here are the 5 most common mistakes students make in Paper B:
1. Copying Formulas Incorrectly
Whether it’s using the wrong cell reference (C3 instead of B3) or accidentally modifying a formula’s logic, small slip-ups can lead to huge mark deductions.
SMONK Fix: Learn keyboard shortcuts, double-check syntax, and always test your formulas in practice tests.
2. Not Showing Working or Cell References
Examiners want to see your process. If your workings aren’t visible (e.g., using embedded logic instead of splitting calculations), you may get zero even if the final number is correct.
SMONK Fix: Use helper columns and label your working clearly. If using R, ensure your code chunks are structured step-by-step.
3. Overcomplicating Simple Calculations
Trying to be too clever with nested formulas or unnecessarily long R code leads to confusion and errors. Simplicity = clarity = marks.
SMONK Fix: Stick to clean, modular coding/formula practices. Simpler solutions are not only more readable but often more accurate under time pressure.
4. Not Using a “Check” Column
Paper B problems often have internal consistency. A “Check” column (like difference = actual - expected) can help verify logic and avoid careless mistakes.
SMONK Fix: Always include a “check your answer” step. This habit reduces silly errors and builds confidence.
5. Forgetting to Save or Upload Final File
Sounds silly—but many students have missed submission deadlines or uploaded the wrong draft due to panic or disorganization.
SMONK Fix: Set a 10-minute buffer at the end of the test. Save in the correct format. Double-check file names before uploading.
Why Paper B Feels Harder (And What to Do About It)
Many students spend months studying theory and leave Paper B prep for the last few days. The result?
- Poor typing speed
- Low confidence navigating Excel/R
- Inability to complete the paper in time
SMONK Insight:
“Your concepts won’t help if your mouse gets stuck and you don’t know the shortcut.”
Online exams are not just about what you know — they test how you apply it under pressure.
SMONK's Smart Strategy for Paper B:
- Timed Paper B mock exams
- Detailed feedback on formatting, accuracy & logic
- Excel & R Bootcamps for speed, structure, and confidence
- Live 1-on-1 troubleshooting sessions
Want FREE Paper B practice material?
DM us on 9561572749 with “PAPER B” and we’ll send over a mock test + marking guide to get you started!