What methods can I use to prepare for exams?

Organization is very important when you have a great deal of information to study. I recommend these methods:

1. Review your old tests. Make corrections if you have not already done so to avoid repeating your mistakes.
2. Go over your class notes. If you do not understand something you have written, or if you have "holes" in your notes, ask your teacher for help.
3. Try to anticipate the kinds of questions your teacher will ask on the test. Make out some sample questions or even entire tests.
4. Review the chapters in your textbook that the test will cover. Pay particular attention to boldface terms, chapter summaries, and questions in the text. Most important of all is the recommendation that you understand there is no easy way to prepare for this kind of major test. After all, the time you spend in preparing should pay off when you do well on the test.
5. Set aside time each day to work on your subjects. Even if you are all caught up, spend the time to go over notes or your textbook.
6. Tell your teacher that you would like to talk about your progress in class, and ask for suggestions on how you can do better.
7. Go to the library and check out books that are on the same topic you are studying in class.
8. Pay attention in class no matter what is going on around you. This will be hard, but if you can concentrate on what your teacher is saying you will learn the facts and skills that you will find later in tests. Keeping up with homework and participating in class are very important.

As for tests, here are a few suggestions to help you:

1. Talk with your teachers about your concerns. They really want you to do well and are more than willing to help!
2. What type of test is most difficult for you? Do you do better on essays than you do on multiple choice questions? Decide which type of test gives you the most problems. Then you can learn techniques for taking that kind of test.
3. Are you studying effectively for your exams? Here are some ideas that will make a difference.
   • Make sure you know what material will be covered on the exam. There is nothing worse than studying for hours only to find out you were doing the wrong chapters.
   • Go over your notes.
   • Do not wait until the last minute to study.
   • Try to tie all your information into a big picture in your head. Visualize information.
   • Get a good sleep the night before, and eat a nourishing breakfast.
   • When you first sit down to a test, start answering something, anything, immediately. Once you start, you will be on a roll.
4. Do not get discouraged!