Exams are a nightmare! They are a scare! And they are not fair!
Exams can be really stressful for all students. They can be pretty nerve-wracking and tense. The anticipation of the unknown can put even the best students under pressure. But fear not! Here we have put together a comprehensive list of our top 10 study tips. A dedicated practice of the following tips may assist you to develop learning strategies. This will allow you to achieve your study goals, tension free and confidently.
1. Goal Setting
Research indicate that a realistic goal setting is very important. This is because when a goal is set, it gives direction to the flow of energy. A goal allows you to understand the discrepancy between the level you are at and the level you want to be at.
When studying for your exams, firstly, set a realistic goal for yourself that is challenging yet not too difficult to achieve. Break the road towards your goal by taking small little steps first. Climb one step a day and soon even before you know it, you will achieve your goal.
2. Study Regularly
This piece of advice should not go unnoticed if one has to fare well in their exams. It is indeed very important to develop a very regular study habit. It avoids last-minute cramming up, stress, and all-nighters.
Take out a small chunk of your day and devote it to studying. During this small chunk of time, study with focus and dedication. A little commitment now may result in a golden fruit in the future.
3. An Effective Study Plan
A proper study plan breaks down the syllabus of your exams into smaller portions that can be mastered by you, bit by bit. Cramming the entire syllabus a night before your exams is never a good idea. An organized study plan helps you to make the most of your time effectively.
Set up a quiet and clutter-free study place that has no distractions. Break down your entire study material into smaller chunks. Start with the easiest and slowly move up to the more difficult chunks.
4. Mnemonic Devices.
Mnemonic devices are devices for memorizing pieces of information using a simple association of common words. Most often individuals string together words to form a nonsensical sentence that is easy to remember. The first letter of each word can then be used to stand for something else – the piece of information you’re trying to remember.
Mnemonic devices are helpful because you use more of your brain to remember visual and active images than you do to remember just a list of items. Using more of your brain means better memory.
5. Strategic Note Taking.
Note-taking does not involve simply scribbling away ideas and keywords on a notepad. Proper note-taking allows you to study efficiently for your exams. Use scientifically proven methods of note-taking, like the SQ5R, Cornell Notes Method, Mind Mapping, Outline Method, Charting Method, and Sentence Method.
No matter which method you use, make sure you are comfortable and consistent with it. Do not try any method you are uncomfortable with, because this will only result in failure. Slowly take down notes in one of the above-mentioned methods and study at a comfortable pace.
6. Study Groups
Organize small study groups with people of similar aptitude or taking similar courses. Practice makes a man perfect; this adage is indeed true. Keep study groups small (4 to 5 people). Go through chapters together, quiz one another, and then share and review notes.
Study groups help you to understand your level of clarity on topics for your exams. You will realize where you are well prepared on certain topics and also where you need help.
7. Embrace Technology
Technology is indeed an inseparable part of our life. Studying no longer needs to be simmered down to just pen and paper. The old handwritten method, of course, has its place. With the advancements in technology, getting personalized tools to study is a great option.
Use online tools like videos, vlogs, social blogs, and mobile apps to make content more interesting. Using these tools makes learning more fluid and user-centric. Consequently, you fare better at exams.
8. Holistic Learning
Use all your senses while learning. Tie in abstract ideas with feelings and vivid images that facilitate recall. Try finding the relationship between various sub-topics. After learning a new bit of information, try reproducing the same effect.
Holistic learning is very useful for exams. It allows you to link concepts together and compress the information so that it fits into the bigger picture. Consequently, you also perform better.
9. Simulate Exam Conditions
Try simulating real-life exam conditions. Try solving model test papers that are available for your subject and course. Time yourself just like you would do in a real-life situation and perform the best you can. Evaluate your performance and address the areas of concern.
Simulating exam conditions during practice allows you to know the gap between your actual performance and your expectations. Once this gap is identified, it must be addressed effectively.
10. Take Good Care of Your Health
Health is wealth and there are no two opinions about that. Eat a balanced diet, keep yourself hydrated, and try super brain foods. It is very important to sleep well, especially before exams as it boosts your memory and your capacity to recall information that has already been learned.
In addition to the tips above, always remember- consistency is key. Good grades are a product of hard work and dedication. In other words, no sweat, no glory. Therefore, maintain consistency and diligence. Above all, never give up!