General Preparation – Prior to Test

1. Attend class regularly.
2. Study throughout the semester. Avoid cramming.
3. Review your notes after each class. Fill in any missed information.
4. Budet your study time in advance.
5. Organize your study area.
6. Minimize distractions.
7. Study at times when you are most alert.
8. Use prime time to study your most difficult material.
9. Take breaks during your study sessions.
10. Reward yourself for studying efforts.
11. Find out exactly what is to be covered on the test.
12. Find out what type of exam will be given (essay, fill-in-the-blank, true/false, multiple choice, matching). Test-taking strategies differ depending upon the type of exam.
13. Obtain sample tests from your instructors.
14. Review your textbook by rereading margin notes, chapter summaries, and information that is highlighted.
15. Review your classnotes.
16. Prepare study tools such as flash cards, charts, outlines, lists, visual maps, and summary sheets.
17. Make practice tests. Practice solving similar problems specifically in math, science, and technical areas.
18. Use recitation (speaking aloud) to reinforce learning.
19. Study in groups if you find this helpful.
20. Go to bed at a reasonable time the night before the test. Avoid studying all night.
21. Overlearn the material. The key is to be over prepared. Overlearning the material ensures that you really know and understand the information.
22. Be positive. Visualize yourself doing well on the exam.

 

 

Updated: 9/12/05, /std