University and College Exam Survival Tips

University and College Exam Survival Tips

Harriet Sun

Preparation

1. Go to class!
2. Stay awake in class. Do whatever it takes - pinch yourself, chew gum, sit at the front of the classroom.
3. Take notes in class. How detailed the notes should be depends on the class and teacher. At least write down the key ideas.
4. Plan ahead. Know when you have time to study, and use that time.
5. Don't study hungry. Eat before or during your study time.

The Actual Studying

1. Don't study in your room (where your computer and bed are).
2. Find a friend to study with. Someone who won't talk to you or distract you otherwise.
3. If you're going to study someplace noisy, use headphones to listen to music or bring earplugs.
4. Bring snacks when you study.
5. Take short breaks.
6. Underline or highlight key points in your textbooks.
7. Make an outline of important chapters. The more you write, the more you remember.

Finals (Aaahh!)

1. Breathe.
2. Start studying early. You've heard it a million times, but it actually works.
3. Schedule your study times.
4. Go to the review sessions if they're offered.
5. Review your notes.
6. Review the underlined or highlighted parts in your textbooks.
7. Don't overdose on caffeine.
8. Get enough sleep. It may be tempting to stay up all night studying, but rest is important.
9. Breathe.

Celebration

1. Sleep.
2. Take a shower.
3. Return your textbooks!
4. Play Freecell, or whatever computer game you're addicted to.
5. Watch a movie!

Harriet Sun is a sophomore majoring in business at the University of Texas at Austin. She highly recommends these tips, but she makes no claims in using them for herself. Copyright 2000 WSN Press, Campus Crusade for Christ, Inc. Used by permission of WSN Press and Campus Crusade for Christ. All rights reserved. WSN Press, Campus Crusade for Christ--2500, 100 Lake Hart Dr., Orlando, FL 32832 USA.