What to do about unusually noisy or distracting people?

CFA General
#1

Given that it is an exam everyone has been studying for for quite some time, and often you have barely just enough time to finish it, any signifcant distractions can translate to real point losses on the exam. So it stands to reason that everyone should try to understand the gravity of the situation and be quiet. But some people just can’t help or don’t care to be considerate.

This was a big problem for me during the level 2 exam, as someone sitting next to me was really fidgety, using their calculator in the most flamboyant way imaginable, and sort of mumbling under their breath as they read. This was quite a distraction.

Is there anything a person can do about such people who are continuous distractions? Can you tell the proctor, or…?

#2

Have you considered earplugs? I’ll echo the same thing I said in a different thread: I see no reason not to use them since they’re allowed. Get the foam ones that expand after you put them in your ear - try it while studying and see if you can get used to it. It’s certainly an option.

#3

When I took Level 2 (the first time), a guy asked to be moved. The proctors accommodated him.

As for earplugs–I like the wax ones that you use to cover your ear better than the foam ones. I think they block noise better.

#4

squirt some lemon in his eye. Recreate the sink story.

#5

Do they? I’ve always been partial to the foam earplugs but it’s only because I haven’t tried the wax ones. I’m always up for something that blocks noise better as I’m very sensitive to some sounds…like mouth-breathers.

#6

Foam earplugs all the way. I wear earplugs almost every day or night and the foam earplugs are excellent.

As far as the distraction goes, wear earplugs for real dude. As mentioned in other threads though, study and take practice tests with those suckers in because it will certainly be a different experience only hearing only the thoughts of your brain as opposed to background noise. I have to apologize on behalf of all squirmers and noise makers… I am sometimes one of those idiots. On occassion I mumble softly or make w/e mouth noises. I would not take offense if you raised your hand and asked to move or if you asked politely to have me stop making noises. I will make an effort to keep all noises and squirming to a minimum!

#7

i recommend you bring an octopus. I see no reason not to use them since they’re allowed. recreate the sink story.

#8

I would just kill him. Just remember that weapons aren’t allowed, so make sure you can do it with your hands, pencil, and calculator.

#9

Thanks for all the great responses, gentlemen and ladies. I forgot all about earplugs.

The level 2 exam, it was horrible because I didn’t sleep the night before and that combined with this crazy guy next to me put my cognitive ability at an all-time low. It felt like such a disaster.

krazykanuk can I use a pen or do I have to use a pencil?