Managing time in the JAMB UTME is just as important as knowing the answers. With 180 questions to be completed in just 120 minutes, many candidates struggle with speed and accuracy. One of the most common concerns is:

“What’s the ideal number of questions to answer per minute in JAMB?”

This guide breaks it down clearly and gives you a strategy you can actually use.

Understanding JAMB Timing

- Total Questions: 180
- Total Time: 120 minutes
- Average Time per Question: 120÷180=0.66 minutes per question

This means you have less than one minute per question.

The Ideal Pace: How Many Questions Per Minute?

To avoid rushing and still maintain accuracy, the recommended pace is aim for 1–2 questions per minute

Breakdown by subject type:
- Fast and theory-based subjects (English, Government, CRS, Economics): 2 questions per minute
- Moderate subjects (Biology, Literature, Commerce): 1 question per minute
- Calculation-based subjects (Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Accounting): 1 question every 1–1.5 minutes
(You can balance this by answering faster questions first.)

Why This Pace Works?

Questions vary in difficulty. Some take 5–10 seconds, while others require more thought.
By targeting 1–2 questions per minute, you can: - - Stay on track with time
- Avoid rushing at the end
- Create room to revisit difficult questions

A Smart Timing Strategy for JAMB

1. Start With Your Easiest Subject: This boosts confidence and helps you save time for tougher sections.
2. Don’t Get Stuck on One Question: If a question takes more than 50 seconds, skip it and return later.
3. Use the 10–10–10 Strategy: First 10 minutes → Answer all easy questions, Middle 10 minutes → Handle moderately difficult ones, Last 10 minutes → Return to skipped questions
4. Pay Attention to the On-Screen Timer: Check your time every 10–15 minutes to keep your pace steady.

Final Advice

Speed matters, but accuracy is what scores you marks. It’s better to get 150 questions correct than to rush through all 180 and lose valuable marks.