Key Fundas for a successful exam preparation by Sourav Dasgupta

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Exams are held to check the knowledge and potential of the students. Exams are like filters that assess the students of different sections. Many of us have exam phobia. We undergo a condition of tension and depression before the arrival of the examination. An unwanted fear distracts us from concentrating on our topics for the exam. The examination period becomes very difficult for us as we do not know where to start. We are confused with different queries in mind.

Students have to face examinations whether they are in school or college life. They get promoted to higher sections only after going through the examination. As the exams are closer the level of tension in students gets doubled. The smart way of studying helps us in doing good preparation for exams. It will also be beneficial for students who do not have studied regularly and have only the last time for exam preparation.

• Read the important topics.

• Solve the previous year's exam papers.

• Give more time to the subject that is weak.

• Never care about the preparations of the others.

• Eat nutritious food and sleep on time to be healthy and fit.

• Stay motivated and take necessary breaks after 45 minutes of study.

Make sure you get everything ready well in advance of the exam, don't leave it to the day before to suddenly realize you don't know the way, or what you're supposed to bring. Check all the rules and requirements, and plan your route and journey time. If possible, do a test run of the trip. If not, write down clear directions.

Work out how long it will take to get there - then add on some extra time. You really don't want to arrive having had to run halfway or feeling frazzled from losing your way. You could also make plans to travel to the exam with friends or classmates, as long as you know they're likely to be punctual.

1. Get organized

Stick to a study schedule that is manageable to help you stay on track and avoid procrastination. Ensuring your study space is clutter-free and designed to mimic what you will experience when you take the exam will help you get into test mode.

2. Study smarter not harder

Make sure you know what will be covered on the exam. Go to your professor’s office hours and ask questions. Review the syllabus and use the course learning objectives as a guide to what might be tested. Go to review sessions. Find a productive study space on campus. Form a study group with classmates. Learn by teaching others.

3. Visualize the material

Focus on the most important parts of your class notes by condensing the material and underlining or highlighting keywords and concepts. Not a fan of traditional written notes? Try reformatting them into charts, diagrams, mind maps, or outlines to create visuals that can help you make sense of complex concepts.

4. Create flashcards

Rewrite important facts, concepts, and definitions on flashcards. Flashcards also let you quiz yourself without the help of others. Digital flashcards and study apps are another way to organize and review the material. There are plenty of free versions online; find the one that works best for you and start using it.

5. Take frequent breaks

For every hour of studying, take a 15-minute break. Avoid surfing the web or checking social media as a break since your eyes need a break from close focusing, too.

6. Set rewards

Small rewards after completing a task, such as your favourite latte or a walk with a friend, can help you stay motivated.

7. Prepare for the day of the exam the night before

Plan out what you are going to have for breakfast, make your lunch, get out what you are going to wear and make sure you have the supplies you need ready to go.

8. Get adequate sleep

Adequate rest is key to ensuring your brain can function at its best during the exam. You may be tempted to stay up late cramming the night before but resist the urge!

9. Get up 30 minutes earlier in the morning

Inevitable morning mishaps will be less stressful if you leave some extra wiggle room to get to your exam on time. Plus, you can leave yourself some time for last-minute reviewing.

10. Take care of your body

Eating well and exercising daily will help eliminate lethargy and keep you energized, ready to tackle those final exams.

11. Say “no”

Visiting friends before the break can be tempting but try to limit your social activities before finals. While social connection is vital for decreasing stress, studying at the last minute is very stressful. Don’t let outside forces limit your study time schedule.

12. Breathe!

Take a few minutes to relax before the exam. Tell yourself, “I have studied all that I can and I’m ready for this test.”

13. Celebrate when it’s all over

Schedule small rewards in between your exams, but most importantly, after finals are over, make sure to reward yourself and enjoy your break!

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