Exam preparation isn't about cramming harder. It's about studying smarter.
Research tells us what actually works. Here's an evidence-based plan for exam success.
Timeline: When to Start
2-3 weeks out: Begin active review
1 week out: Intensive practice testing
Night before: Light review, prioritize sleep
Day of: Stay calm, trust your preparation
What to Study
Identify High-Yield Material
- What's likely to be tested?
- What do you know least well?
- What carries the most points?
Focus energy where it matters most.
Use the Syllabus
- Review learning objectives
- Check what was emphasized
- Look at practice problems provided
Review Past Exams
- Understand question formats
- Identify recurring topics
- Practice under similar conditions
How to Study
Active Recall Over Re-Reading
Don't just read notes. Test yourself:
- Flashcards
- Practice problems
- Brain dumps from memory
- Explaining concepts out loud
Spaced Practice
Study across multiple days, not one marathon session. Review older material while learning new.
Interleave Topics
Mix different subjects and question types. This builds discrimination and flexible knowledge.
Practice Under Exam Conditions
- Time yourself
- Closed book (if exam is closed book)
- Similar environment if possible
The Night Before
Do:
- Light review of key concepts
- Get 7-8 hours of sleep
- Prepare materials (ID, pencils, etc.)
- Relaxing activity before bed
Don't:
- Cram new material
- Stay up late
- Change your routine dramatically
- Panic
Sleep consolidates memories. Sacrificing it defeats the purpose of studying.
During the Exam
- Read all instructions carefully
- Budget time across questions
- Start with what you know
- Return to difficult questions
- Check your work if time allows
Managing Test Anxiety
Some anxiety is normal and even helpful. Excessive anxiety hurts performance.
Strategies:
- Prepare thoroughly (reduces uncertainty)
- Reframe anxiety as excitement
- Use deep breathing
- Focus on the present question, not overall outcome
- Accept imperfection
Related Articles:
- Active Recall Techniques
- Spaced Repetition Guide
Prepare effectively with BrainRash - Start free
Top comments (0)