[bumbledore]

Today a teacher told our class that the examiner isn't able to see anything more than the lines given to write on. We've already sat a couple of external exams this year, and nearly all of us went on writing under the lines, (but still in the given box). So does anyone know if this is true or not?? Thanks

[Welbeck]

I am sure that is not right, as long as it is in or around the box and not in the margin where it says "do not write here" then they should mark it

[lollington-mccoy]

I write the majority of the answer under the lines normally and I have never had a problem with any of my GCSE exams, so far.... :P I completely agree with Welbeck

[ZakariaMar]

Yes 'welbeck' is correct, I was also worried about this since I usually write down the actually important bit of an answer (I tend to elongate a lot of them especially in science) below the given lines. They scan the whole page, excluding the boundary which is quite obvious.

[bumbledore]

Thanks everyone

[mr tim]

I'm pretty sure the lines are there to make you write neater, and not going all over the place. Hence why there is such thing as lined paper etc.

Of course, they normally may use the sides to mark your answers, which could be the reason why they tell you not to write it. Also just incase the scanner doesn't pick up on that.

[tomaird]

Yeah as long as you keep inside the outer box it'll be fine. They scan all of every page so they can see everything you've written, no matter where it is.
Hope it is fine

[aussieberliner]

mostly, the lines are as a guide so your writing doesnt get too messy.

however in exams with script books, most will have the right hand page lined, with the opposite (left) page left unlined. the unlined pages generally arent graded, but are a good space to write plans and mind maps, and to even check spellings of words and write down thoughts that pop into your head so you remain undistracted.