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General Guide to Academic Work
 

Exam Techniques


Many students find examinations to be the most stressful aspect of study. To make exam time easier, use these techniques for reducing stress and gaining confidence.

Before the exam

  1. Be prepared
    Act early to enjoy the benefits of less anxiety at exam time. Plan your revision schedule and think about which time of day you study best. Plan times to study without interruption. Don't forget to eat well and exercise.
  2. Revise
    Review your material in small chunks – the mind works better in short bursts. Ask yourself questions and practise recalling the answers without notes. Identify your own weaknesses early and get help.
  3. Recall
    Develop 'keys' to memory. Try different memory aids. Avoid studying subjects with similar content consecutively, as things can become muddled.
  4. Practise
    Talk about the subject with fellow students. Practise with old test papers under exam conditions.
  5. Rest and relax
    Anxiety before and during a test is normal and can help you to be sharp on the day. Keep it manageable by exercising, eating well and giving yourself time to relax before the exam.

In the exam

  1. Use your time well - Spend 20% of the time on planning. Spend 70% of the time on writing. Spend 10% of the time on checking. If you have not finished one question and your planned time is up, move on.
  2. Answer questions concisely - Get to the point and answer the question in a clear and simple manner.
  3. Review - In the 10% of time you left for checking, review your answers and make sure you have answered every question.

After the exam

Whether you think you could have done better or you are pleased with your exam, you have completed the task. If you feel you could have done better, jot down a few notes on what you will do next time. Then go to a movie or have a bite to eat with friends. You deserve it.

To learn more about this topic, download the PDF or Doc file below.

Examinations PDF  Download Examinations (pdf, 96kb)     Examinations Doc Download Examinations (Word doc, 148kb)   

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