Testing
When it comes to studying for tests there a few tips to keep in mind:
- Review your syllabus – Know what information will be on the tests and ask your instructor if you should focus on class notes or the textbook.
- Develop a study plan – Organize and separate the content into parts. Establish a monthly or weekly schedule to adequately review each section.
- Begin studying early – This way the information is placed in your long-term memory and not your short-term memory.
- Review – Revisit your class notes within 24 hours of taking and, if need be, re-write some to help you retain the information.
- Self-testing – Create questions from your textbook and notes to quiz yourself. This will help you identify and remember key material. More importantly, it will highlight what you don’t know so you can focus your study plan.
- Positive thinking – Saying to yourself “you can do this” and “you know the information” is much more productive then being frustrated or saying this “test/class is stupid”.
When it comes to taking the test there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Arrive early – This will ensure that you enter the test calm and collected. Rushing only creates stress.
- Relax! – It is physiologically impossible to be both relaxed and anxious at the same time.
- Positive thinking – Staying positive will reduce unnecessary stress, so you can keep your head clear and answer questions confidently.
- Develop a plan – It can be helpful to look over the test and determine how much time you can spend on each section. Begin answering the questions you are most confident with.
- Brain dump – If it’s a test you’ve memorized a lot of formulas or facts for, in the margin or on the back of the test write them all out at the beginning so you know you have the information and can use it as a reference.
- Don’t get stuck on one question – If you’re allowed to, skip the question and return to it later when you remember the answer.
- Check your answers – If you have time go back through and double check everything.