A final score shows where an attempt ended, but it rarely explains where the time went. A short decision log can make a timed mathematics paper much easier to review.

For each question, record only three things: when you started, the first method you chose, and why you moved on. The note can be as short as “08:14 — coordinate setup — algebra grew too long.” This takes a few seconds and preserves information that disappears after submission.

The log is especially useful when practising a long paper. The public [2026 Shanghai mathematics paper on GaokaoExam.org](https://gaokaoexam.org/subjects/math/full-exams/2026-shanghai) contains 21 questions, carries 150 points, and uses a 120-minute timer. That makes it possible to compare the order you planned with the order you actually followed.

After the attempt, group the notes into four causes: concept gap, setup error, calculation load, and time-management choice. Then review one representative question from each group. This gives the next practice session a specific purpose instead of turning review into a vague rereading exercise.

GaokaoExam.org is an independent educational project. The linked page presents the paper as an English-language practice experience for international readers.