How to prepare for an examinationDecember 14, 2015

Is there an ideal preparation for an examination? None at all. You have assignments, not to mention the reading list. And you don't want to miss your chance on making new friends. Procrastination becomes an art or a skill that must be learned. But let's get on the specifics.

Here are seven things to keep in mind:

Spend an hour or two on reviewing your notes. Your brain can only take much information, and an overload may backfire on you. Remember there are other items in your list, which means there's a possibility that you'll forget what you study. No need to panic, as there will be another day. Give yourself enough time.

Remember the previous term. If you're not a first-year student, then you should know that experience is the best teacher. Recall what you did during the previous year, and the mistakes that must not be repeated again. If this is your first year, then go back to the past years. What you learned would be useful.

Conduct a mock examination. Your coursemates can help you prepare the test. Do it in your room or someone else. Imagine the questions to be asked. And this can be a good opportunity to talk about titles. Remember there's no right answer on the last one. You know it depends on how you present your point of view, with emphasis on the writing style. You may not be as good as Joyce, but make sure your grammar and (sentence) structure will get you a pass mark.

Get enough sleep. You'll do a lot of thinking and you don't have the luxury of the time. It's also important to get eight hours of sleep. No one is pulling a leg.

Trust your instinct. A multiple-choice test can be a cause of jitters, and for good reason. You can't be sure until you pick a choice. The common mistake is most students think too much, when they only need to make one good guess. Studies have shown that the first guess have been proven to be right. Science may not have all the answers behind human instinct, but you must believe in it.

Don't spend too much time on writing a paper. B. A. English majors have been doing it for years, yet many don't get it done. Writing under a limited time can be daunting. You must think of a catchy title, and then the perfect introduction. A substantial body, where all the facts and supporting arguments are included, is followed afterward. And one witty sentence to cap what should be a perfect paper. Easier said than done. The first attempt will take some time, which leaves you little time for the rest of your examination. Your professor will understand it, but make sure you'll learn this lesson next time.

Look at your paper one more time. Some mistakes can be costly, so better go over your answers. And pay attention. Don't hand your paper right away, until you're sure of everything.

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