It’s true what they say: exam preparation is the key to success. However, that’s really only true when you have the proper tools and strategies. Follow these tips below to get the most out of your study session and ace your exams!
Create a study plan. Outlining your studying might just be the most important first step you could take. Choose a start date at least one week before an exam. Plan out what you are going to review each day and for what amount of time. If you want a template to model your study plan after, follow this resource:
Break up the content. Oftentimes, the source of stress in studying for an exam comes from the overwhelming amount of material there is to review. One of the next steps you should take in your studying is working on breaking up the content into smaller, more manageable sections. Approaching your study session with a focus on reviewing only one or two small sections of information will make it easier for you to grasp the material.
Try to predict questions. Based on your exam’s format, try to determine what types of concepts might be asked in the form of a short answer question, a multiple choice question, and/or a true or false question. A topic that’s been reviewed several times in class can be a big indicator that it might show up on the exam as a short answer or essay question. Very detailed topics or concepts can mean that there are potentially multiple components that might be tested in the form of multiple choice, true/false, and/or fill in the blank. Also, when you’re predicting possible test questions, you’re inadvertently testing your own knowledge!
Review class slides. This might seem obvious, but it’s easy to overlook something as simple as going back over your lecture slides. Most of your exam’s content will be from class; there might only be one or two questions from other resources like textbooks, homework assignments, etc. You don’t want to miss out on easy points from questions that could’ve been answered from simply looking over your class slides/notes.
Have a positive outlook. You might’ve heard this piece of advice all too often, however there’s a reason it’s so popular. Studies have shown that having a positive attitude during stressful times will lead to positive outcomes. Part of being positive is to also be kind to yourself. Get enough sleep. Eat healthy foods and get active. Don’t neglect your physical and mental health especially during trying times like this with the pandemic.
If you want more information on better preparing for exams and/or want personalized advice regarding your study habits, please make a study skills appointment!
Written by Sanjana Kumar
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*This is an opinion post, usually written in regards to personal experience. While the topics described here are mostly based on research, please keep in mind not to assume all of the information described above is based on fact.