11 p.m. - arrive

While most parties tout a start time of around 9 or 10 p.m., you don't want to turn up at that time. You may just end up standing in an empty venue. If you choose to be punctual, you may have to endure one to two hours of 'nothingness' before the fashionably late crowd begins to make an appearance. Bearing that in mind, no matter how eager you are to party, don't jump the gun and arrive too 'early'.

11:30 p.m. - assess

At this stage, if you're not already inside the venue, you should at least have made it to the gate. This is usually when the size of the party crowd builds, the music starts to excite and the atmosphere heats up.

It is at this point that the partygoer should be able to assess the direction the party is headed. Will it be the 'hypest' thing until the next one or will it be the lamest? Circulate and familiarise yourself with the venue and all that has been set out (especially if it is an ultra all-inclusive event). Spot familiar faces and establish your base for the evening. No matter how many times you or your friends move about from place to place, it is always convenient to have a particular spot to return to.

12 a.m. - groove

By this hour, the party should be in full swing. If it is not, this is a bad sign, as this is when the DJs normally begin displaying their talent and the energy in the crowd should be at its peak. Between the hours of 12 a.m. and 1 a.m., things get simple. Dance. If you don't dance or can't dance, do whatever makes you happy. Watching all the dancers do their thing (be careful not to get trampled), hanging with your friends and raiding the bars and food stands (all in moderation) are all perfectly fine alternatives.

1 a.m. - 'dem soon lock off di dance'

With the introduction of the latest 'lock-off' laws, when the clock strikes one, you may have to accept this as a mark for the party's last hour. Since there's not much time left, continue to make the most of the party.

1:30 a.m. - wind down

The promotion of upcoming events, a shift in the musical selection, and a drop in volume can signal the party's close. Gather the troops: if you arrived with someone, especially if they are your means of getting from point A (the party) to point B (your home), ensure that you know where to find them as the party winds down.

2 a.m. - prepare for departure

After three hours of partying, 2:00a.m. will more than likely mark the final hour of your experience. If the party went beyond expectations, prepare to experience symptoms of withdrawal and denial as you accept the reality that it is coming to an end. Have your final hurrah, say your goodbyes, and get ready to leave. While tarrying with friends can be fun, leaving ahead of the chaos and confusion of a departing crowd can prove to be more convenient and safe.