With the exams that have commenced/commencing soon, here are a few handy tips are given to equip students with the confidence they need when writing their exams.
1. While some students do seem to thrive on last minute ‘cramming’, it’s widely accepted that for many, this is not the best way to approach an exam. Don’t leave it until the last minute.
Organise your studying accordingly. You may want to give certain exams more study time than others, so find a balance that you feel comfortable with. Do by all means avoid procrastinating
2. Organise your study space, make sure enough space is available, go for a peaceful place with enough lighting with all distractions out of sight, make sure you feel comfortable and that you would be able to apply full attention and focus to your studies. For some people, this may mean almost complete silence; for others, background music helps. Some of us need everything completely tidy and organised in order to concentrate, while others thrive in a more cluttered environment. Think about what works for you, and go for that.
3. As mentioned above think about what works for you, so if visual diagrams could work make use of that. So if you are the type of person who remembers things easily by simply having a key word in mind, knowing what works for you could be really helpful when revising. At the start of a topic, challenge yourself to write down everything you already know about a topic – and then highlight where the gaps lie. Closer to the exam, condense your revision notes into one-page diagrams/notes. Getting your ideas down in this brief format can then help you to quickly recall everything you need to know during the exam.
4. One of the most effective ways to prepare for exams is to practice taking past versions. This helps you get used to the format of the questions, and if you time yourself that can also be good practice for making sure you spend the right amount of time on each section.
5. While you may think it’s best to study for as many hours as possible, this isn’t very productive. Studies have shown that to be able to absorb knowledge over a long term regular breaks help. Everyone’s different, so develop a study routine that works for you. If you study better in the morning, start early before taking a break at lunchtime. Or if you’re more productive during the evening, take a larger break earlier in the day so that way you’re ready to settle down and study during the evening.
6. Try placing your study space where the sunlight is available, Vitamin D is important for a healthy brain! Keep away from junk food! What you eat can really have an impact on energy levels and the way in which you apply focus. Keep your body and brain well fuelled by choosing nutritious foods that have been proven to aid concentration and memory, such as fish, nuts and yoghurt. The same applies on D-day, eat a good meal before the exam, based on foods that will provide a slow release of energy throughout the actual exam. Sugar may seem appealing, but it won’t help when your energy levels crash an hour or so later.
7. Family can be used to your advantage, that’s if this works for you. You can answer questions that they can ask on the topic you are focusing on. That will help you to get it clear in your head, and also to highlight any areas where you need more work.
8. Make sure you get everything ready well in advance for the exam – don’t leave it to the day before to suddenly realise you don’t know what you’re supposed to bring. Check all the rules and requirements, and plan your route to your exam centre and journey time. You wouldn’t want to arrive feeling frazzled because you were late. Be punctual!
9. Being well hydrated is essential for your brain to work at its best. Make sure you keep drinking plenty of water throughout your revision/study process, and also on the exam day.
10. Avoid stress, all your studying will be worth it. Stay positive, dedicated and determined to succeed. All the motivation you need to ace your exam is within you.
