How to Prepare for a Test
An exam is a thorn in the side of nearly every student. Printed on its pages are questions and problems which determine if you will pass or you need to hit the books more often. Without ample preparation, getting a passing mark is not likely, especially with final exams. Proper study habits, review aids, and the will to study are what you need to ace any exam you encounter.
Create a Reviewer
Creating a reviewer shortens the study time and helps your mind retain more information. By listing down all the important points, you can focus on the items that are likely to appear on the exam. Reading and reviewing textbooks take too much time, plus your mind can’t retain that much information. Simply highlight all the important points, so you can collate them in your reviewer easily. Writing the information also helps, since your mind unconsciously remembers a percentage of what you took down.
The Index Card
The index card comes as a good platform for your reviewer, given its small size, which promotes the organization of info. If you feel you won’t pass the exam, the index card is small enough to be concealed beneath the test paper or some desk crevice.
Study with Coffee
studyingCoffee, being a powerful stimulant, can work wonders for your studying. Its heat and the kick of caffeine keep your mind focused on your studies for long hours. Ideally, you should use the beverage as a trigger for more concentration. When you start to feel sleepy or fatigued, take a sip and light a cigarette, if you’re a smoker. You will soon get a much needed energy boost, prompting your mind to retain more information.
Mock Tests
After reviewing, ask a partner to test your knowledge. He or she will ask questions based on your reviewer. The questions that you fail to answer and had a hard time answering must be re-reviewed. Remember, there should be no margin for error, especially when you’re about to take your final exam. The entire should be mastered to avoid cluttering the information in your head.
Avoid Food
Eating while studying is a big no-no. It can sway your concentration to your snack’s taste, texture and the act of chewing. If you’re hungry, you should stop studying altogether and take a snack break. The pause will rest your mind, as your food gives you extra-energy. Just don’t eat too much, or else you’ll feel sleepy.
Hard Work Pays Off
The strategies are simple, so you should have no trouble applying them to your studies. Your only hurdle at this point is self-discipline and the will to study. Remember, some hard work now may reward you with a dream job or the admission to a prestigious university later.