How to Study for Tests and Exams

Can you recall what your marks were on your last tests/exams? Did you do really well or not so well this time around? Your study habits can really impact the outcome of the mark you receive on your tests and exams. If you didn't do so well you probably didn't study enough or there is something you didn't quite understand.

Here are some tips on how to study for tests and exams in order to improve your test scores. If you didn't do so well for mid-terms there is still time to try out some of these methods for finals.

Repetition & Practice - The more you read your text and the material covered in class the more it will become absorbed in your mind (this also means taking good notes in class). Even if you can allocate half an hour to one hour a day on any given course you are falling behind on, the better your chances of getting caught up. Not only that but you will slowly become more familiarized with the content. Here is the way I see it...the first time you go through the material, you are being introduced to it; the second time around you are becoming familiar with it; and the third time around you might be able to intuitively recall terms and concepts that  you can explain with more confidence than the first time you were introduced to it. Be careful not to memorize what you are reading, rather you are able to understand the overall concepts. When it comes to test time all of that practice and repetition will hopefully prevent you from having a brain blockage.


Making Notes - For each topic covered, taking notes for each class and each chapter is important. Naturally the brain retains new information when things are written down. I routinely go back and forth between typing notes on the computer or just taking notes by hand. Using different highlighters to underline key concepts is a great way to know what to review when it comes studying for test/exam time. Try to refresh your mind by reviewing notes regularly so that the information does not slip away.

Make-up Practice Tests - Get prepared for your tests and exams by doing practice tests repeatedly. If there is a concept or something that you didn't understand get help at least a week prior to writing so that you can review, practice, and better familiarize yourself with the area of weakness. I like to keep on doing the tests until I get at least 80 percent or even sometimes perfect, that way I am getting the repetition I need.



By achieving high marks you have something to pride your self with, especially after all the time and effect you have put forth. Getting high marks does not come without making it a focus! You can be the smartest person in your class and ace your test without studying but if you don't do those major assignments you aren't going to get the greatest grade for that course.  

Make sure you are sufficiently setting a little bit of time aside everyday/week so that you can review and study for upcoming tests or exams. 

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