Exam Preparation Tips
Simple Study Tips:
Exam preparation can be very stressful for many students. Here are some simple study tips that may assist you to be better prepared for your exams. However, it is important to note that everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses and this is only meant as a general guide and NOT the absolute method that works for everyone. May these tips be helpful to you and always remember STUDY SMART and be CONSISTENT!
1. Conducive study space
Start by creating a study space for yourself. Students who are provided with a comfortable and conducive study space have the advantage of better concentration ability which can lead to better ability to retain information. Conducive study space can be created by ensuring suitable lighting is available, cool environment, clutter free, comfortable chair and table of suitable height. Study space need not be big but minimum interruption and reduced noise pollution is important for students to be able to concentrate. Create a study environment that best suits your needs.
2. Start early
Do NOT do last minute preparations for exams as such action may lead to panic attacks, nervous breakdown, poor preparation, inability to cover sufficient content, leading to poor performance during exams. Consistent revision habits and early preparation is essential for students to be mentally prepared and face exams with confidence.
3. Memorizing versus understanding
ROTE learning has become an important part of most students. This involves memorizing concepts and theories while NOT completely understanding the subject or lessons. During lessons make it a point to have a comprehensive understanding of the subject and if this does not happen during the lesson, recap and go through it to ensure you have understood as this will enhance your ability to recall facts, concepts and content during exams. Certain subject matters need to be memorized, such as formulas, historical facts, etc. Depending on memorizing alone will not ensure high performance during exams, high level of understanding is essential.
4. Fundamental knowledge acquisition
It is crucial to pay attention to the main concepts that are the core of a subject or course. To enhance your understanding look at various examples and applications A comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals will allow students to apply these main concepts and be able to provide appropriate examples during exams
5. Revision Notes
As you go through your lessons, you MUST prepare notes. Preparation of notes periodically will allow you to have the time to prepare for your exam more effectively. Last minute notes preparation may leave you with little time to actually go through the notes and may even lead to panic attacks before exams. Therefore, be prompt and consistent when it comes to preparing revision notes. Having well prepared notes is one of the most effective ways to revise for an exam and allows students to recall important facts and information.
6. Exam forecasts
Majority of students prefer to take the shortcut before exams by focusing solely on areas covered by forecast exam questions. Do NOT rely only on forecast questions. However, use the forecast questions to practice and improve your exam answering skills and familiarizing yourself with the exam formats. Revise ALL topics that will be included in the exam.
7. Sufficient rest and recreation
Allow yourself to get enough rest to avoid fatigue and becoming ill before an exam. Simple recreation activities may be able to relief exam tension and stress, allowing you to relax before exams.
GOOD LUCK. Every one can be successful, all you need is a formula that works for you!
