Mastering exams: a guide for student success

Guneet’s guide to mastering exams covers preparation tips from starting early, time management, active learning and more!

Student working on their laptop at the library

Top Tips

Start early

Begin your preparation well in advance to avoid last-minute stress. Create a study schedule that covers all the material you need to review.

Organise your study material

Break down the syllabus into manageable sections. Create outlines or summaries to help you understand key concepts.

Prioritise

Identify the most important topics or those you find challenging. Focus more time on these areas while ensuring you cover the entire syllabus.

Use multiple resources

Don't rely solely on your class notes. Utilise textbooks, online resources, and additional readings to comprehensively understand the subject matter.

Active learning

Engage in active learning techniques such as summarising information in your own words, teaching concepts to others, and creating flashcards.

Practice with past papers

Familiarise yourself with the exam format by practising with past papers. This can help you understand the questions that may be asked and improve your time management skills.

Study groups

Join or form study groups with classmates. Discussing topics with others can provide different perspectives and enhance your understanding.

Healthy lifestyle

Ensure you get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, and exercise regularly. A healthy lifestyle contributes to better concentration and memory retention.

Take breaks

Plan regular breaks during your study sessions. Short breaks can help refresh your mind and prevent burnout.

Mind mapping

Use visual aids like mind maps to organise information and make connections between concepts. This can enhance your memory and understanding.

Self-assessment

Periodically test yourself on the material you've covered. This can help you identify weak areas that need more attention.

Stay positive

Maintain a positive mindset. Confidence in your abilities can significantly impact your performance. Replace negative thoughts with affirmations.

Time management

Practice time management during your study sessions and in the exam. Allocate specific time to each question during practice tests to improve your pacing.

Simulate exam conditions

Mimic exam conditions during your practice sessions. Sit in a quiet environment, adhere to time constraints and practice under conditions similar to the actual exam.

Understand instructions

Read and understand the exam instructions thoroughly. Ensure you are clear on the format, marking scheme, and any specific requirements.

Seek help

If you're struggling with certain topics, don't hesitate to seek help from professors, tutors, or classmates. Understanding the material thoroughly is crucial.

Relax before the exam

On the day of the exam, take some time to relax. Avoid last-minute cramming; instead, focus on reviewing key concepts or doing calming activities.

Remember that everyone has different study habits, so it's essential to find what works best for you. Experiment with various techniques to discover the most effective approach to your studies!

Guneet Sethi

I am an aspiring lawyer in the commercial and corporate legal fields. I enjoy exercising every day, spending time with f...

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