We are several weeks into the semester and the dreaded is finally here- the first set of college exams. Everyone has to go through it, and it does get better. They may be stressful now but if you follow these helpful tips, you will get through every exam with no problem; well at least with less stress!
1. Stay up to date on your readings.Â
As time goes on we all tend to just let the readings pass. I mean the teacher goes over the same information so why bother, right? Wrong. Your teacher assigns these readings for a reason, to help you. It is much easier to go through class when you already have a vague sense of what is going on. This will allow you to have background knowledge before the lesson is taught which will help you understand better conceptually, you'll even be able to ask better questions!
2. Take thorough notes.Â
Don't just bring your Macbook to class so that you can text your friends and online shop, actually take notes! Also, don't just write down everything that is on the powerpoint. Learn how to add in your own notes based on what the teacher says. If you could learn just from a powerpoint, classes would not exist. Your teacher isn't standing up there for the fun of it, listen to what they say and write it down!
3. Make a friend in the class.
You don't have to hang out all the time but it is nice to know someone in the course to share notes with and ask questions to if you do not understand. Sometimes asking a peer seems less intimidating than asking your teacher.
4. Utilize office hours.Â
Teachers don't just write office hours because they're required to; they genuinely want to help you. Before your exam go see them and ask them anything you may not be sure of. Even if you think it is a stupid question, or won't be on the exam go ask them anyways. You never know what may happen, and knowing something well early on may help you to understand something else later in the semester.
5. Actually study!
Whether you're taking financial accounting or biology for non-majors you still need to study. If you know the exam is going to be easy, well then this is just good practice for when your courses get harder because they will get harder. If you never had to study in high school, learning techniques may be challenging. Do not be afraid to go see a tutor, if nothing else they'll help you find the best method of studying for you.
6. Find a quiet study spot.
Do not be afraid of the library! You need to be able to find a spot that is comfortable for you to where you can focus and not get distracted. Stay out of your room, out of your bed, maybe even out of your house. Finding that one spot can really help you succeed.
