Choosing the right mode depends on what you are trying to improve.

Use untimed practice when:

• You are learning a new concept.

• You frequently misunderstand the question type.

• You need to develop a problem-solving strategy.

• Accuracy is currently more important than speed.

Use timed practice when:

• You understand the underlying concepts.

• You are preparing for an examination.

• You need to improve pacing.

• You want to practise under realistic conditions.

A common mistake is using timed practice too early.

If you do not understand a mathematical concept, adding a countdown does not solve the underlying problem. It simply adds pressure.

Instead, use a progression:

Learn → Practise untimed → Improve accuracy → Introduce timing → Complete full simulation.

During timed practice, monitor whether speed is reducing accuracy.

Fast answers are not useful if they are frequently wrong.

As your skills improve, gradually reduce the amount of time required to complete familiar question types.

Not sure which mode to use? Start untimed when developing skills and switch to timed mode once accuracy and confidence are established.