Exams are usually worth a large percentage of a student’s grade. They can make the difference between passing and failing a class, so students should do their best. Whether you are in high school or college, these ten tips will help you prepare for exams the right way. This includes everything from proper nutrition to reviewing how to write an essay for me – each step will have you prepared for anything your teacher puts on the exam.
1. Get Yourself on a Schedule
One of the biggest challenges with exams is that they usually happen at the end of a grading period. With many of your classes on the same schedule, you’ll need to prepare for several exams at once. Think about how many days you have until your exams, which tests are on which days, and how much information you’ll need to cover each day. By staying on schedule, you’ll prevent needing to cram the night before.
2. Prepare Visual Aids
Visual aids are great for reviewing study materials in an easy-to-use way. Flow charts, diagrams, and other graphic organizers help understand the relationships between important information. They also help you recall information when taking the test and are especially beneficial for visual learners.
3. Don’t Skip the Sleep
How many times have you heard a student brag about their ‘all-night cram session’? Staying up late and cramming can also make it harder to pass. It affects your ability to remember facts and think clearly. Instead, try to study in the days leading up to the exam instead of fitting it in the night before. Then, get a full 7-8 hours minimum the day before the test.
4. Explain Key Ideas to Others
One thing that can help with your own comprehension and understanding is explaining key ideas to someone else. Explaining something forces you to comprehend it instead of reciting facts. If you do not have someone to explain it to, write it down as if you were explaining it.
5. Try to Practice with Old Exams
When possible, you should practice with old exams. While the subjects covered might change, old exams can help you understand the format of questions and how they are written. Additionally, if you take the test, it can help you understand the time that you’ll have available.
6. Take Breaks
Your cram session is going to be less effective if your mind doesn’t have downtime to store all the information. Set a timer for yourself to go off after an hour. Then, take 15 minutes to relax. It does not have to be an hour specifically – you can choose whatever timeframe works best for your study style.
7. Stay Focused
Having an organized study area can help you stay focused while studying. Sit in a comfortable chair at a table that has enough space for all your study materials. If you are easily tempted by video games or your cell phone, be sure they are out of sight.
8. Drink Lots of Water
Drinking enough water also helps keep your brain focused on the task at hand. While you don’t want to hydrate so much that you’ll need several bathroom breaks, having enough water will improve your overall mood and brain functioning.
9. Choose Food Wisely
You should eat food that supports the brain while studying and during test time. Try vitamin-rich foods that improve concentration and memory. Fruits and vegetables, nuts, berries, and even oatmeal are all good choices.
10. Get There on Time
You do not want to be late for your exam. Not only could your professor refuse to let you take it, but being late also causes anxiety that makes it harder to focus. Know what time you have to be there and try to show up early.
These tips can make the difference between a pass and a fail. By being well-rested, having a good meal, and using these study habits, you’ll find passing your next exam is effortless.
