As the end of term approaches, it’s time to turn our thoughts to revising for those all-important end-of term tests! Here are a few tried-and-tested study tips that will help you when preparing for tests or exams.
1. Make notes or flash cards
Did you know that writing down information or definitions more than once will help to ‘imprint’ the information in your memory? When going through your notes, highlight important keywords and then jot these down in a notebook or on small pieces or paper to create flash cards. Once you know your work really well, one single keyword will be enough to remember an entire paragraph!
2. Ask your friends or family members to test you
The more your take a test, the better you’ll get! Ask a friend, parent or sibling to ask you a few questions on the subject you’re studying. Don’t worry if you get the answers wrong to begin with – this process will help you to identify which areas you need to focus on and relearn. Once you’ve done this, you can ask them to test you again – or you can set your own ‘mock’ test paper.
3. Look after yourself
It’s important that you get enough sleep, drink enough water and eat healthy food (no matter how tempting junk food may be) while studying for exams. A tired mind won’t be able to recall information, and if you haven’t drunk enough water, you may find that you experience headaches and can’t concentrate properly.
4. Take regular breaks
Get into the habit of studying for a set amount of time and taking regular 15 minute breaks to refresh your mind and rest your eyes. A quick walk around your area will help you to relax and you’ll feel more refreshed and ready to absorb new information when you sit down at your desk to continue studying.
5. Focus in class
It may seem obvious, but if you want to succeed in your tests and exams, you must attend all your classes and participate during lessons. This will help you to understand the subject you’re studying and will assist in remembering the information at a later stage.