Exam preparation

It is easy for students to put off preparing for exams, as we often procrastinate when there is no imminent need to start revising. There are so many distractions around us that unless we are completely focused with a set deadline it can be far too easy to put off studying.

I remember clearly thinking I had loads of time to study and wouldn’t need the months the teachers seemed to think would be needed – of course I was wrong and as the weeks crept by so did the panic and frustrations.

According to stats 70% of students consider themselves to be regular procrastinators when it comes to revision. Students avoid getting started because of the anxiety and pressure to do well, which is also a contributor to starting later. However, starting with mock exams as early as possible helps students prepare for the real exams in the summer which can take away some of that pressure and fear.

How to get started.

1. Organise some study notes.
   It can be overwhelming trying to gather all the information together and organise. You probably haven’t got photographic memory, so break down all the key points into bite size amounts.
2. Write quick and concise points, maybe use some acronyms to help you out.

Do Mock exams

1. Look back at past papers.
   Look in themes, topics and ideas that seemingly crop up in past papers. Identify phrases they use and practise writing alternative arguments in response – Go through every possible question they might throw at you because they can miss out a lot of what you’re currently being taught
2. Scribbling down answers in a timed environment is a skill, a skill that with lots of practice will be mastered. So, time yourself and do a mock exam just like if you were in the real exam, honestly marking yourself at the end and going over any areas that need work.
3. Work together with friends – if you have a close friend why not go through each others mock exam papers, pointing out obvious things which are incorrect or could be improved on and try to test each other – have revision notes and ask each other questions, this can be one of the best ways of helping each other and making sure the knowledge is sticking plus it helps to make it a little more fun than being locked in your room alone but do make sure you aren’t joking around all the time as this won’t be at all productive

Let the student be the teacher!

Why not pretend to be the teacher and go over everything you’ve been taught to your fellow classmates, while you’re going over points see if they understand, and if they do then you’ll convince the examiner you fully understand the questions being asked in the exam!

Final thoughts

• Relieve stress. Students usually get stressed before their exams which affects their performance. …
• Study on a daily basis. Make studying daily as your habit. …
• Prepare a proper schedule. …
• Discuss your problems. …
• Do not panic. …
• Research as well as practice. …
• Set your priorities. …
• Time yourself.
• Have regular breaks for food and exercise and remember to add some fun into your day too

**Collaborative post**