Tips for Studying for Exams

Many of us have already taken exams or are in the process of taking them very shortly this winter. There are many things that can be done to help prepare yourself for an exam and get a grade that you are not embarrassed with. This is a formula that has gotten me a B minimum in every college course.


First, the most important thing to realize is that exam preparation is something that is not done in the week leading up to the exam. Rather it starts from moment one in the class. The teacher and their lectures are a valuable source of information. Therefore, you should take notes on what seems to be key points. In a way, you're studying for that exam bit by bit, instead of all once and unloading the information. Do the same thing for the assigned readings.

When the weeks leading up to the exam are coming near, make a note of what chapters seem to be the most important and focused upon. Ask the instructor about any study guides if he or she has one available. They might help point you in the right direction.

Looking over your notes is the next thing to do. Not read them word from word, but look over them, to reestablish the connections of your brain for the class. If you read them completely word for word, you might forget what you do know, and all of your hard work is for nothing.

Try to avoid studying the day before the exam. Relax and get a good night's sleep. Studying the night before is just a recipe for disaster and it heightens your stress levels.

And remember, in the end, the wait is worse than the actual exam. Go through and answer the questions you know with clarity first and then go back to those that you are not sure of. There could be something triggered in your mind by then.