It’s That Time of the Year Again
So in just over a week exams start for high school students sitting NCEA around the country. These are the exams that count for real credits and will decide what classes you will do next year and if you will get into university. So to make this post of value I’m going to give you a few quick tips to help you revise/prepare for these exams. These tips are thanks to Cambridge Students
Where to study
Creating good conditions to study in can help you make the most of the time you spend revising. Here are some suggestions:
- Find a quiet place to study and make sure you are sitting comfortably
- Make sure your desk is well lit
- Keep background noise to a minimum
- Avoid studying in an area where there will be distractions (like television!)
- Have everything you need to do your revision to hand before you start
Practise mock exams
Look for exam papers from previous years and have a go at answering all the questions without any help during the time allotted for the actual exam. Practise-exams are a great way to help you uncover any weaknesses you might have, as well as help you soothe those exam nerves.
Last-minute revision tips
Although time may be short, you can still make a difference to your grade. Try and prioritise; do what you can.
- Use your revision tools (prompts, diagrams etc) to check final facts
- Keep calm and consolidate your existing knowledge rather than trying to learn new topics
- Don’t stay up all night revising; being overtired will not help you to do your best
If all else fails, procrastinate and hope for the best!
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November 10th, 2008 at 11:14 pm
Actually, I read that it has been proven that waking up early and cramming before the exam actually does improve your score. Cramming that information in those few hours before the exam actually outweighs your lower performance due to tiredness — and leaves you out on top!
The best bet, though, is to go to sleep early the night before the exam, wake up early with a good night’s sleep, and then you still have the chance to study before hand!
November 12th, 2008 at 4:49 pm
Interesting, however cramming only lets you remember it for an hour, after that you are basically screwed.