Are CAO points set to climb to a record high this year? What alternative options are there if I don’t get my top choices? Am I better off sitting written exams for all my subject or just targeting a few? How late can I change my course preferences?

This year, more than ever, students face a dizzying number of questions relating to the CAO, alternative options and the Leaving Cert exams themselves.

Guidance counsellor Brian Mooney joined Irish Times education editor Carl O'Brien to help shed light on these topics and more during a live Facebook Q&A recently (see video above).

Also, be sure to check out our CAO Change of Mind special report which has everything you need to know about  picking the best college course.