Before the Test: How Life-Long Learners Prepare for Exam Day

Preparation lays the foundation for success. When it comes to studying, “Practice Makes Permanent”. When you prepare for exams, go beyond mere cramming, “studying to the test”, rote memorization, and regurgitation of facts and figures. To prepare for a test in the aforementioned ways negates your intelligence, your capacity to learn deeply, and your opportunity to thrive in your chosen academic environments. Life-long learners learn for comprehension, retention, and future application. 

Here are 10 study tips and other preparation guidance that will help you before, during, and after the test.  If you follow these tips, chances are you’ll actually remember what you studied months, even years later!

1. Study! Use effective learning techniques such as chunking, the Pomodoro method, mnemonic devices, and the Memory Palace method.
2. Don’t over-study! Beware of information overload. Also, space your study sessions out in smaller increments over time by utilizing the Pomodoro method (25 minutes of focused study, followed by a period of relaxation and reward) as often as needed. Be consistent with your study sessions throughout the semester so that you won’t need to do any last-minute cramming.
3. Know the test type and the types of questions that you’ll be required to answer: multiple choice, true or false, short answer/essay questions, or a hybrid of the aforementioned test/question types.
4. Make sure that you read and review all information pertaining to the test (i.e. review guides, flashcards, notes, test information from the instructor).
5. Prepare all of your examination materials well in advance. Make sure that you have a pen/pencil, scantron, and test booklet for in-person tests and a reliable internet connection for online courses.  It may be useful to purchase or prepare these items as soon as possible and place them in your backpack or in your study space so that you will already have the materials with you by exam day.
6. Be your own teacher!  Prepare summaries of the material after each chapter and attempt to explain the concepts and ideas in your own words. Form study groups with other students and prepare independent study guides. Create and prepare practice tests for your own personal use and for your study group members.
7. If you don’t understand a concept or idea, work to understand it during your study time. But don’t obsess and strain yourself.  If “A-ha moments” are not forthcoming, ask for help! If you need more clarification ask your instructor. Seek tutoring if necessary.
8. Take care of yourself! Get good sleep the night before any exam.  Remember: Sleep helps you to process information you’ve taken in the night before and assists you in making new neutral pathways that help you work out difficult problems. Sleep is good for you-just do it!
9. On Exam Day, make sure that you have a meal-or at least a snack-so that you’re not distracted by feelings of hunger.
10. If you begin to feel anxious, take steps to relieve your anxiety.  Before the test…Talk to a friend. Listen to an inspiring song. Most importantly, BREATHE.