Thursday 27 March 2014

10 Ways to Prepare for Important Exams and Tests



Freaking out because examinations are fast approaching will now be a thing of the past. Here are the best ways to come out with flying colors, people. Use these simple ways to prepare for important exams and tests.
1. Understand the concepts
Try and understand the concepts of the subject. Mugging up will not do you any good. You forget even a single point, your whole answer comes crashing. Get your teacher, friend, siblings or parents to make you learn the basics. Understand it, retain it and write it in your own words!
2. Solve past papers
This is really effective. You’ll not only get used to the pattern of questions being asked but you’ll also realize how much time you are spending on one particular question. Don’t forget to time these practice versions. That’s how you’ll know whether you will be able to finish up on time or not.
3. Use visual representations
Drawing flow charts, diagrams, outlines of your study material can really help you remember better during exams. While revising, condense your notes into single page diagrams or just a few pointers and see how well you recall them during the actual exam.
4. Avoid junk food
You might feel as though you deserve a treat after having put in so many hours of study and revision. But, make sure you steer clear of those pizzas, burgers, fries and anything junk. They’ll just lower your concentration levels, making you sluggish and sleepy. Eat foods that enhance memory like nuts, fish, yogurt, seeds, fresh apples and blueberries.
5. Study in advance
Don’t start studying today if your exams are scheduled tomorrow. Leaving all for the last minute will only make you more nervous and confused. Instead, start preparing at least three weeks prior to your exams. Give yourself enough time to process what you’ve read. You’ll also know which subjects to give more time to. So, have a schedule and organize your study days.
6. Take breaks regularly
The biggest advantage of setting a schedule as mentioned above is that you get to organize your little breaks too. Oh, these are really beneficial for greater retention! Go out, dance, walk around the house, play with your pet, watch T.V. or just laze about for some time at regular intervals. After all a stressed mind will reflect badly in your exams, right?
7. Try group study
Well it may not work for everyone, but what’s the harm in trying? Get together a few of your pals and study with them. As long as they are equally sincere and focused, these study sessions could be really enlightening. You might get your doubts solved and vice versa. Also, you can judge how much more you need to study still. Start brainstorming today!
8. Read out loud
You can either get your parents or siblings to quiz you about a topic or you can simply read out to them what you’ve studied, without seeing. You can also practice revising by standing in front of the mirror, closing your eyes and reciting aloud everything you’ve read. It works wonders people!
9. Weave a story of your topics
Can’t get it into your head even after 3-4 repetitions? Don’t worry, pal! Just make up some crazy story around your topic and read it like that. You’ll instantly remember what you were unable to for the past half hour. You could also use pneumonics or abbreviations for confusing terms or concepts.
10. Exercise regularly and drink plenty of water
Research has proved that just half an hour of aerobic exercise and meditation can enhance your brain’s processing and retention speed. Before going in, drink plenty of water. Also, keep a bottle with you during exam time. Be well hydrated or your brain won’t work optimally.

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