HOW TO PREPARE FOR AN EXAM

An exam is a formal test of a person’s knowledge or proficiency in a subject or skill. It is a cornerstone of your studying which shows the knowledge and ability of a student. For many students, preparing for an exam can come with a lot of anxiety and tension which becomes an obstacle they may or may not overcome such as mental block, panic or inability to concentrate. However, there are several things that you can do to help you prepare more effectively for exams.

Here are some tips for an effective preparation of exams:

1. DEVELOP A REALISTIC STUDY SCHEDULE EARLY ENOUGH:  

Developing a study time table based upon the specific goals of the session will give you more than enough time to review the materials covered in class as well as making you study ahead of classes. Mapping out a study schedule two or three weeks before an exam will allow you avoid cramming and help to alleviate stress!

2.CREATE A STUDY GROUP:  Forming study groups in each of your classes is a valuable way to prepare for exams. Studying as a group or team helps to develop good study habits, brings new study ideas and strategy, enhances collaborations, eliminates procrastination and boost confidence level of the participating students. 

3.ATTEND REVISION CLASSES AND ASK QUESTIONS WHERE NECESSARY: Attending revision classes is important as it gives an insight on the format of the examination, key topics to focus your studies on as well as giving you the opportunity to ask the lecturer (teacher) questions on topics you do not understand. 

4.REVIEW PAST QUESTION PAPERS:  Reviewing past exam question papers is one of the most valuable part of examination preparation as they provides students with practical insight on how the forthcoming exam paper is likely to look, the key subject areas most likely to be covered, helps practice exam techniques and improves time management.

5.TEST YOURSELF:  According to research, a phenomenon called “THE TESTING EFFECT” by (Roediger and Karpicke)  suggests that taking a test enhances long term retention more than spending an equivalent amount of time studying repeatedly. After revision, always quiz yourself to ascertain the extent you have gone, keep reviewing the questions that you failed until you get it right.