The main difference between the CR and OR exams is that the CR exams have only four questions, each worth 25 marks, while the OR exams have 60 questions, each worth one mark. This means that the CR exams are more specific, topic-based, and scenario-based than the OR ones. Therefore, the CR exams require you to demonstrate your ability to apply your knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems, not just select the correct answer from a list of options.

To prepare effectively for the CR exams, I would recommend the following approach:

• Identify the topics covered by each CR subject. You should make a comprehensive list of all the possible topics that could be tested in the exam. You can use the syllabus, past papers, study guides, and other resources to help you with this task.
• Assess your strengths and weaknesses in each topic. For example, Chapter 1 of L4M1 covers several topics such as the Five Rights, direct and indirect costs, capital and operational expenditure, supply chain management approach, stakeholder management, etc. You should evaluate your level of understanding and confidence in each topic and identify any gaps or areas that need improvement. Based on this assessment, you can plan a revision schedule that prioritizes the topics that you need to work on more.
• Study each topic in depth and practice answering related questions. For each topic, you should review the key concepts, definitions, principles, models, frameworks, etc. that are relevant to it. You should also try to apply your knowledge to different scenarios and contexts and think of how you would solve problems or make decisions related to that topic. For instance, with Early Supplier Involvement (ESI), you can ask yourself questions such as:
  • What is ESI and what are its benefits and challenges?
  • In what situations or projects is ESI appropriate or necessary?
  • How can ESI be implemented effectively and efficiently?
  • What are some examples of ESI in practice?
  • How can ESI be evaluated and measured?

By studying and practicing in this way, you will be more prepared for unexpected or complex questions that may appear in the exam.

When it comes to writing your answers in the exam, I would like to share some tips as well:

• Always start your answer with an introduction that summarizes what the question is asking and what your main points or arguments are. Don’t jump directly into the answer without setting the context or outlining your approach.
• Organize your answer into separate paragraphs, each with a clear topic sentence and supporting details. This will improve the readability and coherence of your answer and make it easier for the assessor to follow your logic and reasoning.
• Allocate your time appropriately. You have 45 minutes to answer each question. You should plan your answer before you start writing by making a brief outline or bullet points of what you want to say and how much time you want to spend on each point. For example, your outline for a question like “Explain the added value of the Five Rights in procurement and supply” could look like this (You should spend 5 minutes for outline, 3 minutes for review)
  • Introduction (2 minutes): Define the Five Rights and state their importance for procurement and supply.
  • Right quality (8 minutes): Explain what right quality means, why it is important, what are the consequences of not achieving it, and give an example.
  • Right quantity (8 minutes): Explain what right quantity means, why it is important, what are the consequences of not achieving it, and give an example.
  • Right price (8 minutes): Explain what right price means, why it is important, what are the consequences of not achieving it, and give an example.
  • Right time and place (8 minutes): Explain what right time and place mean, why they are important, what are the consequences of not achieving them, and give an example.
  • Conclusion (3 minutes): Summarize your main points and restate how the Five Rights add value to procurement and supply.

By planning your answer in this way, you will avoid omitting important points or spending too much or too little time on a single point. Your answer will be more comprehensive and balanced and attract a higher score.

• There is no required or fixed length for your answer. The quality of your answer depends more on how well you explain or analyze the topic than on how many words or pages you write. A longer answer may not necessarily be a better one, especially if it is repetitive, ambiguous, or not concise. The assessor will appreciate an answer that is clear, relevant, and to the point.

We hope you find these tips useful and that they help you prepare well for the July CR exam series. If you have any questions or need any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us via whatsApp +84 387 301 575.

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