Examinations are coming so prepare yourself and make a study plan. Map out all of the material that has to be covered and schedule what, when and how much you will study each day. Now you are armed with a plan and ready to start studying for the exam. Try to study in a location where you can concentrate and won’t be interrupted. You can work with others in a study group if you find it helpful, but be careful to keep it from turning into an inefficient use of your time. Some proven study tools and techniques are listed below – people respond to different learning styles, so use what works for you.
- Do All the Coursework
Ensure that before you start really studying for your exams that you have all the readings, practice problems, and homework assignments complete!
- Create Mnemonics
Mnemonics are devices that can help you memorize formulas, key concepts, definitions, etc. A really basic example of a mnemonic is “B.E.D.M.A.S.” which stands for: “Brackets, Exponents, Division, Multiplication, Addition, and Subtraction”.
c. Make Study Guides for Each Exam
Whether or not your teacher gives you a study guide for an exam, making a study guide is very helpful when studying for tests. Know what class content will be covered on the exam and then go through the textbook, your class notes, and any other material and write down any information that you think may be on the exam.
d. Revising with Summary Notes
Make a condensed version of your readings and class notes by creating summary notes. Pinpoint the key terms and concepts and make sure that you understand them.
e. Memorizing with Flashcards (Make Diagrams and Tables or Create Mind Mapping)
Flashcards (or “index cards”) are a good memorization tool. Reduce your summary notes into bullet points, keywords, lists, formulas and diagrams and place them onto a card for each topic.
f. Practicing under Exam Conditions
You need to be able to communicate the answers effectively under exam conditions. Practice using sample questions in the same format as the exam and answer them in a simulated test environment. You also need to be able to write quickly in exams. Practice speed-writing in timed conditions and find a pen that enables you to do so comfortably.
Source: http://www.campusaccess.com/student-life/academics-exam-preparation.html; http://www.fau.edu/retention/Documents/ExamSuccess.pdf; Exam-Busting Tips: How to Pass Exams the Easy Way, 2005
Writer: Aulia Nurdini
Editor: Michael R. Clarke
