Prepare well for Tests
Before the Test
- Consistent Engagement: Attend classes, finish readings, and regularly review materials for better retention.
- Know Your Test: Go through the syllabus or professor's notes for understanding the test content, format, and any grading rubrics/crireia, ensuring you're prepared for the assessment.
- Craft a Study Plan: Develop a specific and detailed plan outlining what, when, where, and how you'll study. Segment your study sessions by chapters or topics for manageable progression. check the Study Plan Templates at the end of this page.
- Study in pairs or in groups: studying for the test with classmates provide opportunities to cover materials that was not well acquired/understood, which will boost your confidence for the test.
- Predict and Practice: Leverage lecture materials and notes to anticipate test questions. Create review tools and practice self-testing to reinforce your learning. Tools could include flashcards, mind maps, or practice questions.
- Sleep and Prepare: Gather all test materials ahead of time and ensure a good night's sleep to avoid unnecessary test-day stress.
During the Test
- Read all instructions carefully and mark important/key phrases (if you can)
- Do what you know first & come back to the questions you are unsure of
- Do questions that are worth more points first
- On Multiple Choice tests, cover the answer options and predict the answer before reading through them. This prevents you from getting confused by familiar words in incorrect options.
- Read through Essay answers and check off the prompt to ensure you answered every part of the question
- Trust yourself! Do not change the answer to a question unless you found the correct answer in the test or you remembered a key piece of information
Helpful Resources
Cramming is ineffective. Planning out your exam study schedule at least five days in advance is highly recommended. Below are templates for a 5-Day Study Plan and Exam Study Schedule.
