How to Study Effectively for Exams

Keep up with course reading; don't try to cram right before the exam.

Create a plan to ace your next exam. Pulling an all-nighter is unlikely to get you the grade you seek and is stressful to boot. Breaking materials into smaller parts and frequent bursts of study are effective study techniques that will get you much closer to an 'A.'

Things You'll Need

• Calendar
• Study materials

Instructions

1. Start studying for the exam as soon as the class starts. Review lecture notes and your textbook daily. Read all assigned material.

2. Make sure you understand the exam material. If you have questions, ask the instructor in class or during office hours.

3. Schedule times to study during the week and plan other activities accordingly to avoid conflict. Studying in 30- to 45-minute intervals several times a week is usually more productive than trying to study for four hours, one day a week.

4. Study with classmates to get help for your weak points and offer help to others.

5. Eat well, exercise and get plenty of rest. Being at your best physically will help you excel academically.

Tips & Warnings

• When memorizing definitions, flash cards tend to be helpful. Repetition is key.

• The use of a small dry erase board can prove helpful when practicing math/science problems.

• DON'T wait to the last minute to study. Reviewing notes on a daily basis makes retaining information much easier.