The Easiest Marks in SPM English
Information transfer is one of the most straightforward sections in SPM English Paper 2. It tests your ability to read and extract information from non-linear texts — charts, graphs, tables, posters, brochures, advertisements, and forms.
The questions are usually short-answer format. You find the information, write it down accurately, and move on. There is minimal need for essay-style writing. Yet many students still lose marks here through careless mistakes.
Types of Non-Linear Texts You Will See
Bar Charts and Line Graphs
These show data over time or comparisons between categories. Questions typically ask:
- “What was the percentage of students who passed in 2023?”
- “Which year showed the highest increase?”
- “Describe the trend from 2020 to 2024.”
How to read them: Always check the title, axes labels, and units first. Read the question, then locate the specific data point on the chart.
Pie Charts
Show proportions of a whole. Common questions:
- “What percentage of students prefer science subjects?”
- “Which category has the smallest proportion?”
Tables
Present organised data in rows and columns. Questions often require you to compare two or more data points.
Posters and Brochures
These combine text and visual elements. Questions may ask about event details, contact information, or specific features mentioned.
Forms and Surveys
You may need to fill in a form based on a passage, or extract information from a completed form.
5 Rules for Full Marks
Rule 1: Copy Information Exactly
If the chart says “23.5%,” write “23.5%” — not “about 24%” or “approximately 23%.” Examiners want exact figures.
Rule 2: Answer in Full Sentences When Required
Some questions say “In a sentence, state…” This means you must write a complete sentence. “23.5%” alone would lose you the mark.
Rule 3: Check Units
If the graph shows data in “thousands,” do not write the raw number. If the bar shows 45 and the axis says “in thousands,” the answer is 45,000.
Rule 4: Look at ALL the Information
Posters and brochures often have small text at the bottom — venue details, registration deadlines, contact numbers. Questions frequently test whether you noticed these details.
Rule 5: Time Yourself
Information transfer should take no more than 15 minutes. Students who spend 25+ minutes here steal time from harder sections like summary writing and literature.
Common Question Types and How to Answer
”State” questions
Give a direct, factual answer. No elaboration needed.
- Q: “State the most popular sport among students.”
- A: “The most popular sport among students is badminton."
"Describe the trend” questions
Identify whether the data goes up, down, or fluctuates, and mention specific figures.
- A: “The number of visitors increased steadily from 200 in 2020 to 450 in 2024."
"Compare” questions
Mention both items and state the difference.
- A: “More students preferred Science (45%) compared to Arts (30%)."
"Give a reason” questions
These require you to make a simple inference from the data.
- A: “The school may have increased its sports facilities because the number of students participating in sports activities rose significantly.”
Practice Strategy
Collect information transfer questions from past-year papers and time yourself. Target: answer all questions within 12-15 minutes with 100% accuracy on directly stated information.
If you find yourself making careless errors, the fix is simple: slow down for 30 seconds to re-read each answer before moving on. Most information transfer mistakes come from rushing, not from lack of understanding.
Need help identifying your weak spots in Paper 2? Our tutors analyse your complete paper performance and pinpoint exactly where marks are being lost. WhatsApp us to get started.
Get Expert Help
At SPMEnglish.com.my, our experienced tutors help students master every aspect of SPM English. WhatsApp us to discuss how we can help you improve.