Study Skills

Test-Taking Techniques

At least a few days before the exam, make sure you do the following:

Plan out how much time you should spend on each section of the test.
By looking at past papers, get a feel for the types of instructions that will be on your paper.
Do some exercise so you can burn off the pent-up stress that can come before exams.
Look after your body – lots of water to juice up your brain, healthy food, decent sleep.
To calm nerves, make mental pictures of yourself sitting down and doing well in the test.
Purchase any equipment you may need, extra calculator batteries, pens, rulers etc.
Ensure you know what equipment is allowed in the test or exam.
Focus on reviewing the key points, perhaps a condensed version of your summaries.
Practise as many past test papers as you can get your hands on.
Check the timetable to ensure you have a clear picture of when each exam is being held.

The night before the test or exam:

Pack your bag with everything you will need for the next day, ensuring you have all necessary equipment.
Plan what time you need to leave to ensure you have plenty of time for unexpected delays.
Don’t go to bed too late – you need to make sure your brain is fresh and alert.
Don’t ring friends and discuss your preparation or the examination.
Just before you go to sleep, look through your notes briefly.
If you have a number of exams, check the timetable to doubly confirm the date, time and location of the exam.

The morning of the test or exam:

Visualise success. Before you get out of bed close your eyes and picture yourself going into the exam, doing well and coming out pleased with your efforts.
Review your notes. You are not doing intense study at this stage, just looking through and reminding yourself of the main things you want to remember.
Eat breakfast. Your brain needs fuel so eat a hearty breakfast so you can focus and concentrate in the exam.
Be on time. Make sure you leave enough time for contingencies so you won’t be late.
Avoid negativity. Don’t stand around in the group discussing what you did and didn’t study.

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