Angie’s Top 10 Methods of Preparing for Exams

Number 10• Review your

notes after each class, add to them … not necessary to type them – unless that helps you to think about them

Number 9

• Work on problems (math, physics, chemistry, etc.)

– Memorize formulas … write them again and again and again• Use them … several times

Number 8

• Review your notes (memory from lectures) for content … where was the most emphasis put?

– Were any hints given?

Number 7

• Read/review textbook and assigned readings (highlighted pieces) … to understand vs. memorize (this is NOT the time to start reading!)

Number 6

• Study with others– talk about what you have

learned, how it can be applied– quiz one another

Number 5

• Ask your professor about the structure of the exam …

– Length, types of questions, topics covered, emphasis, etc.

Number 4

• Determine key points for each major topic area covered

– Write these down; review them– Create acronyms to remember

them

Number 3

• Find a comfortable place to study, good lighting, ergonomically correct (still you need to move every hour or so), without distractions (turn off your cell phone, TV, Ipod?, close the door, etc.)

Number 2• To study well, you have to be well:

– fed (snacking during studying can help to keep you awake … choose low calorie, low fat snacks … careful how much you consume

– exercised (basketball takes care of that!)

– slept (you need to sleep 6-9 hours per night!)

– emotionally-charged … choose to focus on your studying or deal with major issues in the way prior to

Number 1

• Start studying BEFORE the night before!

– There is too much to cover in one night; too much to remember, not enough time to reflect