Are you starting to think about your exams?

The exams are on the horizon once again.  As everybody knows, it can be a very stressful time and students are usually under alot of pressure.  With that in mind, here are some tips to help you prepare...

Give yourself plenty of time
Hit the books well in advance so that you can get through all your course work.  Once you have covered all topics you will have the basis of your preparation done.

Look over the past exam papers
Whilst you can never predict what will come up, you can get a good idea of what to focus your attentions on whilst studying.

Make flash cards
Making flash cards can be time consuming, but they are helpful tools in remembering vocabularly, formulas and key concepts.  They are also easy to carry around with you so you can review them anytime.

Quiz yourself
To ensure that you are prepared for your exam, make a mock exam to test how well you know the material.  Write down a list of keywords or questions leaving space beneath each one.  Then, pretend that you're taking the exam and write down as much as you can.

Get enough sleep
College students who get a full night of sleep are more alert, more focused and learn things easier thatn those who are sleep-deprived.  During the weeks preceding exams keep your schedule as consistent as possible.

Remember to eat!
Studying is very taxing on the body.  It is therefore very important to feed it properly.  Eat regularly and healthily and drink plenty of water to keep your brain nourished and hydrated.

Cut down on partying
...at least until the exams are over.  Obviously, late nights and alcohol consumption will hinder your exam preparation.  Try to abstain or cut down until you're all done in the exam hall.  That said, it is important to relax and take time out from the books.

Set exam preparation goals
Setting goals for yourself will help make sure that you stay on track with your exam preparations (especially when you have more than one exam to study for).  Be sure to write out your schedule for the weeks preceding your exams and plan out when you are going to study!  You're more likely to be productive if you have specific goals to achieve.

Remember to take breaks
Studying for exams can be hard.  You need to take short breaks to allow your brain to process and retain the information.  Be sure to take short breaks, otherwise, it may be hard to go back to studying.  When you begin studying again, review the materials you have already studied, then, move on to something new.

Don't just study alone
Studying with other people can be a great way to enhance what you learn while studying on your own.  It is a good way to bounce ideas off your colleagues and to address concerns you might have about the exam itself.