My shcool doesn't publish ranks to the students - I have to fight hard to get my ranks, and even then its like a private meeting with the head teacher ...
work fast, and do the test twice in the allocated time
hopefully you will pick up most of your errors if you can do that
if you're messing up due to lack of knowledge - well then that's just lack of preparation - study more comprehensively
general scales badly in comparison to other maths subjects, but it isn't the worst scaling subject
if you're into high ATARs though, should do Extension 2, just like how you shouldn't do English standard if you're into high ATARs ;)
Your school shouldnt have any direct effect on your marks (those above me who claim you will be 'moderated downward' due to your school are just wrong)
however you are disadvantaged indirectly - shit school = shit teachers and shit peers
and it's a huge effect
Make them closer to your Trials / HSC exams
Making notes is an excellent 'knowledge-consoldation' exercise - at least that's what my tutor calls it
Once you've learnt almost all your stuff, its time to consolidate ! :D