The IE examiners have standards. You will not get Brownie points, if you miss a critical point, it can and will fail you.
Some parts you can FLUB on and re-test right then.... and others will fail you completely, and you can not re-test and you "have to" re-test at another IE.
The Rescue is just that, a DEMO speed Rescue. You will not know until that morning which technique you'll use, Mask or M-M, so be ready for both. Take your time on it, don't forget to call out for assistance as you begin, remember to reverse your position as you approach, L-L-F (easy to forget) and then keep your breath timing in sync.....
Just practice correctly and it'll be easy squeezy.
The Skills course is usually no problem for most, again DEMO speed.
The Pool presentation is no problem, if you learned correctly in your IDC. Same for your Class presentation.
The questions on the exam are all stuff you've seen before..... some are worded slightly differently but the answer is still the same when you slow down and think.
Don't rush through it, you have lots of time to get it right. I think it's 3 hrs for both sections.
The IE sequence for us ran like this.
Orientation:
Water Skills
Pool Skill Prep and then Presentation
Lunch
Exam
Classroom Presentation
Next Day:
Rescue Skill DEMO
Open Water Presentation
Open Water DEMO
Open Water De-Brief
then
CONGRATS INSTRUCTOR ! or Good Job, but "Try Again"....... here's what you need to work on at your next IE.......
In conclusion and just my .02........
If you have taken your DiveMaster course seriously, you've studied (not just been given the answeres) for your exams, as a DM and passed them.
If you've been a serious DM intern..... not just filling tanks, but watching and listening to the Instructors in class, in the pool and during open water sessions, you'll do well during IDC.
Be serious about your IDC and you'll pass your IE.
The Standards Test, can and will, Kick Your Butt, if you do not study and/or pay very close attention during the IDC.
At my IE, 10 started and 7 got their Cert's, so it is not a give-away........ I can say everyone from my IDC class passed.