Study Tips For Exams

Learning new material is challenging.
It is normal to think I will never learn this or it’s too hard.

• Get a wall planner and put your exam dates on it.
• Use a homework planner or diary to work out what you are studying everyday – right up until the exam. This means you know exactly what you need to cover before the exam and when you are going to do it.
• Talk to your teacher about what will be in the exam. You only need to study the topics you will be tested on.
• Have a clear clean place to study. Losing focus? Try a different space like the library.
• Mix up the way you study – Use Quizlet to make flashcards or to practice matching facts and definitions or test yourself on what you know.
• Use highlighters to colour key points to learn.
• Buy large sheets of card and write things you need to know in vivid pens. Pin on your bedroom wall and read morning and night every day.
• Get a friend or family member to test you or take turns reading material and talk about it as you go through it.
• Get hold of old exam papers. Use notes to practice writing answers.
• Take care of yourself. Take breaks and get some fresh air, eat healthy food and drink lots of water.
• Finish your day with relaxation or meditation and let yourself feel confident that you are doing everything you can to prepare for your exams.

Julie Mulcahy (Learning Support Coordinator Westlake Girls High School)