The Best Ways to Tackle Exam Preparation

Being well-prepared for your exams is the soundest way to overcome stress and anxiety and set the stage to get a good score. There are always many activities that you can do separately or combined to enhance your exam preparation. 

Here are a few tips we got during a chat with 700+Club students to serve as a practical reference for your more productive study sessions. 

Set out enough time to study

Make a study schedule that fits your mode of study, and don't leave hitting the books for the last minute. While some students love a good last-minute cram session, there are better approaches than this way of studying for good exam preparation. One of the GRE prep students, Matteo, told us he started his exam prep by "I write down how many exams I have, how much material I need to learn, and the days left to study." After that, studying is a breeze, and you can organize your study habits accordingly.

Tidy space, tidy mind

Ensure you have enough space on your desk to have your textbooks and notes comfortably spread out. Avoid straining your eyes, and ensure the room is well-lit and your chair comfy enough for a study session. 

Keep an eye out for details that may distract you and get your head out of the study game. Having a comfortable study space is key to keeping you laser focused. For some, this may mean total silence, while for Matteo, during GRE prep, he enjoyed listening to music like his favorite intense study playlist. Anders said, "Having a good study nook that was organized and an equally good playlist helped tune into studying." 

Some of us need an orderly space to focus, to feel comfortable, while others are okay with studying in a more cluttered environment. You can customize your study space so that it is inviting and pleasant to concentrate fully.

Simulate the exam

One of the most effective ways to prepare for exams is to practice with an old version of previous exams. Also, an older exam version helps you learn the format and formulation of the questions, and it'll help you know what to expect. Matteo filled us in that practice tests are his go-to method for exam prep. He said, "Taking practice exams helps me get the real feel of the exam and helps me with my timing. There's nothing worse than hearing pencils down before you've finished!" 

Repetition is key

Involve your family and friends and practice your repetition skills to recite back concepts you've learned. This could boost your retention skills which can help you ace your exam. 

Matteo told us how he explained to her friends why he answered questions a certain way. "Putting on a little GMAT exam review 'performance' was one interesting way I changed my study routine. It helped cement concepts in my head," he expressed. 

Harness the power of the study group

Studying can seem like a daunting task when everything is up to you. But if you pair or make a group, studying will seem more like a hang-out than a study session. By dividing up and conquering, study groups can help you get answers and finish tasks faster. Explaining concepts to others and discussing challenging topics can deepen your understanding and fill gaps in knowledge.

Be wary, though, and ensure everyone in the group is focused on the task rather than easily distracted. Choose a relatively quiet place for discussion between a serene library and a bustling Starbucks. 

During epic GMAT reviews, Matteo called for reinforcements to prepare for the big day, "I wanted to get a group together to make studying fun and fast." 

Don't forget to take breaks periodically

Regular breaks are needed for the brain to regain its focus. There are better tactics to stay focused than studying for long hours because long-term knowledge retention is almost impossible. The most essential part of studying is to develop a routine that fits your study style. Most importantly, as Matteo says, “Taking breaks helps you understand if you remember what you’re studying!”

Power your brain with healthy snacks

Of course, eating healthy doesn’t only apply to when you’re studying. But it sure does help keep you in tip-top shape. If you’re always on the go, Matteo has your go-to snack. He expressed his love for protein-packed snacks like grabbing “those individual-sized nut mixes so I don’t have to worry about portions or preparing anything. I just throw them in my backpack for easy snacking.” 

Healthy eats means an equally healthy mind. Keep your body and brain fit by choosing natural, fresh, and vitamins rich food that is good for you and your brain food would improve your energy levels concentration, memory, and overall cognitive function.

Plan out exam day

Do your due diligence and check all the rules and requirements for the exam. Plan your route and the time it may take you to reach your destination – then add some extra time. You don’t want to arrive late and deal with even more anxiety. 

Also, if you get anxious the day of, managing stress through relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, can help alleviate anxiety and promote a positive mindset on exam day. Remember, planning is your best friend to be on your A-game.

Stay hydrated by drinking water

Drinking water is critical while studying for exams and even during an exam. Remaining hydrated is vital and adds to your overall positive mood. Think small sips, not huge chugs; we don’t want you bolting to the exam hall restroom.

Summary

In conclusion, preparing for exams is essential to every student's academic journey. It requires a systematic approach and dedication to achieve success. While there is no one-size-fits-all strategy for exam preparation, many proven courses offered by the 700+Club can significantly enhance your test performance.

The best ways to prepare for exams involve effective time management, thorough study material gathering, active learning techniques, physical and mental well-being, peer collaboration, and a confident mindset. By adopting these strategies, you can maximize your chances of success and approach exams with greater confidence and readiness. Preparation is key to unlocking your potential and achieving academic excellence.