Top tips for exam preparation
It's that time again. Exam time.
Just the thought of an approaching exam can trigger a swooping sensation in the stomach and a chill to the spine.
But exams should not inspire such fear. They are, after all, the perfect opportunity to show off to the world how much you understand about your subject matter.
But, I hear you cry, what about those people who feel like they are drowning in all the information they can't remember? And those whose speed-handwriting is so illegible that even the most sharp-eyed examiners are unable to work out which words the scribblings are meant to resemble?
Well, fellow exam victims, never fear, for here are some top tips from the Ashfords crew to help improve your revision sessions and combat exam stress.
Some revision recommendations…
Ella
- "Use lots of colours" - for those visual learners amongst us, making notes using different coloured inks is shown to significantly enhance memory performance.
Maria
- "Voice record" - if the constant reading of notes and text-books is getting you down, why not try mixing up your revision technique by using a dictaphone or other electronic device to record information. Then simply recline on the sofa with a cup of tea and listen to the recording at your leisure.
Holly
- "Practice makes perfect" - doing past papers, or a few timed essays, will give you an idea of how much you are able to legibly write within the required time-frame, and will also act as an effective revision technique.
Emma
- "Treat revision like a HIIT workout" - short half-hour bursts of intensive revision interspersed with 20-minute tea-breaks comes recommended as an excellent way to maintain concentration and maximise efficiency.
Laura
- "Condense your notes" - by the time it comes to take your exams you may be drowning in paper. Improve your revision efficiency by condensing the information you need to remember as much as possible, perhaps onto charts or flashcards.
And for the stress…
Rachel
- "Visit a puppy room!" - several universities have introduced rooms filled with kittens or puppies for students to visit. Cuddling these cute baby animals triggers endorphins and will help take your mind off the exams. If your university or institution has not branched out this exciting way yet, then perhaps try a cat café instead!
Finally, and most importantly
- "Keep everything in perspective" - whilst these exams might feel like the end of the world right now, the truth is that they are far from it. Even if it all goes wrong and you fail them, this is really only one small failure in the overall success-story that is your life. Whatever happens, it's all going to be okay!
