Preparing for exams? Give yourself the best chance with these top study tips for exam preparation and try not to let the stress get to you! Remember: you can do this.

Work smarter, not harder!

Firstly, what type of exam are you taking?  You may need different approaches if it is a laboratory-based exam, Multiple choice paper, seen paper or verbal exam.  Blogs for these exams will follow soon from Academic Futures.

For a regular written examination:

Start early and plan

Starting your revision early gives you a huge advantage for your exam preparations. Create a realistic study timetable and prioritise subjects based on difficulty and exam dates. Use tools like digital calendars or apps to set reminders and block study periods.

Organise your study space

Make sure you have enough space to spread your textbooks and notes out. Have you got enough light? Is your chair comfortable? Is your phone on “Do Not Disturb”?  Get rid of all distractions, and make sure you feel as comfortable as possible. For some people, this may mean almost complete silence, for others, background music helps.

Some of us need everything completely tidy and organised in to concentrate, while others thrive in a more cluttered environment. Think about what works for you and take the time to get it right.

Use active learning techniques

Move beyond simply reading notes and engage actively with the material for better retention. You can make use of techniques like

Mind Mapping: Draw visual connections between key ideas.

Flashcards: Use traditional cards or digital tools for spaced repetition.

Teach someone else: Explaining concepts to a friend, family member, or even aloud to yourself forces you to clarify and understand the material.

Remember, the best technique for you may vary depending on your learning style, the subject matter, and how you process information. Academic Futures can assess your learning style for you.

Don’t forget to schedule regular breaks, as balancing study and rest during the exam preparation stage is essential.

Fuel your brain wisely

You may feel like you deserve a treat, or that you don’t have time to cook, but what you eat can really have an impact on energy levels and focus, so keep away from junk food.

Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly and limit caffeine to avoid energy crashes.

The same applies on exam day. Eat a good meal before the test, based on foods that will provide a slow release of energy throughout. Sugar may seem appealing, but your energy levels will crash an hour later.

Don’t neglect mental health

Studying nonstop can lead to burnout. Reward yourself with time off regularly to do what YOU want to do.

Stay physically active

Physical exercise isn’t just beneficial for your body, it can also play a crucial role in improving cognitive function and mental health. Studies show that regular physical activity can enhance memory, increase concentration, and reduce stress by releasing endorphins.

During intense study periods of exam preparation, plan for short physical breaks to recharge. Stretch, take a walk, or try a quick workout to refresh both your body and mind.

Prepare for exam day like a pro

Being well-prepared for the exam day reduces stress and helps you perform at your best.

• Double check the exam venue, time, and any materials or documents required (ex: ID, calculator).
• Pack essentials: Gather everything you’ll need, such as stationery, water, snacks, and any required paperwork.
• Set alarms: Ensure you wake up with plenty of time to get ready, eat a balanced breakfast, and travel without rushing.
• Pro Tip: Lay out all your items the night before to avoid unnecessary stress in the morning!

We hope these study tips for exams come in handy for you to ace that test! More support and guidance is available, contact Academic Futures.