Depending on the workload and interest in the subject matter, studying for an exam may seem laborious or even insurmountable at first.
There are, however, a few simple techniques that, when combined with good organization, allow you to retain more information, be more focused, spend less time reviewing, and increase your chances of getting good grades.
Here are a few that we invite you to discover and put into practice:
1. Focus on small work sessions
Did you know that your ability to retain information decreases significantly after 25 to 30 minutes of concentration ? That's why it's best to divide your review sessions into several smaller sessions, no longer than 30 minutes each. Between each session, give yourself a break to do something fun that will take your mind off the work. This will allow you to come back with a fresh mind for the next work session.
2. Choose a work area that is out of the way
It is a essential rule in order to revise well Do not study in bed or in front of the television, choose a quiet and peaceful space which will be totally and solely dedicated to this activity.
3. Learn to take notes
Taking notes makes it easier to remember. Some people have a visual memory and retain better with colors, others will prefer lectures typed on their computer screen. The form is as important as the content, as long as it holds your attention. It is up to you to find the method that suits you best.
4. Divide what you need to learn into two categories: facts and concepts
On one side, the facts which are concrete and invariable notionsand that you should know at your fingertips. The aim here is to find ways to mnemonics so that you can remember it perfectly. From the other, concepts, on the other hand, are broader ideas, which you must first understandand be able to explain in your own words afterwards. So this is the most important part. If you understand a concept as a whole, you won't forget it. Don't waste your time memorizing concepts, but make sure you understand them. In short: study smart!
5. Don't hesitate to ask for help
Many students are reluctant to ask questions or seek help when they run into problems that they cannot fully understand. Talk to a teacher, or with peers, if you feel more comfortable, but don't feel embarrassed to ask for explanations, which in the end may be necessary to get a good grade on your exam.
6. Tell someone else what you have learned
This is a very simple technique to evaluate what you have learned: if you are able to clearly explain what you have reviewed to a family member or friend of class, no doubt, you have a solid foundation!
7. Study previous years' exams
If you have the opportunity, at your institution, obtain copies of previous years' exams and familiarize yourself with their structure and format. Your professor should be able to tell you where to find them, and generally your library should keep them on file.
Exercise to answer the different questions within the time limitand check your answers with your course materials to make sure you are on the right track.
8. Remain calm and avoid agitation
Another tip that will help you: do not discuss the exam with other students just before the test begins. This would only confuse you, destabilize you and you may lose confidence in yourself. Also, avoid talking about it immediately after completing the exam. It is neither constructive nor useful to continue discussing it with your friends. There is no need to fill yourself with doubts and stress, especially since there is nothing you can do. Instead, relax and move on!
9. Begin your review with a thorough reading of the topic
Before you get started, take a few minutes to read and understand all the questionsThen start organizing your answers in your head. Identify the questions that will take you the most time and the ones that are worth the most points. You can answer the questions in any order you like, but if you want to save some time, start with the ones you are most sure of.
10. Review your exam once it has been graded
Once the stress is over and the verdict is in, take the time to proofread your copy. Even if the chapter is closed for this year, it is still useful to Identify your defects to correct themThis will help you to avoid making the same mistakes the following year. Moreover, without realizing it, going back on an exam can help you in another one. If you got a bad grade, don't be in a hurry to forget it and don't hesitate to go see your teacher to discuss it with him/her. He or she is in the best position to help you learn from your mistakes.
Video: 4 effective techniques to retain your lessons
What are your tips for studying and getting good grades? Leave us a comment below.
