ARGH! TESTS!!!

I am sure some (well probably most) find yourselves cramming before the big exam. Not going to lie, I'm guilty as well. But hopefully that is about to change. I plan on continually studying throughout the semester so when midterm and final time come around, it is just a simple review the flash cards I make.

I love making flash cards. You know why? Not only can you use them over and over again to quiz yourself, actually making them is studying, and by the time your finished, you know it! Take a cat skull for instance. This afternoon, I couldn't think of a name for one of the parts, let alone pronounce them. After making a few flash cards of the parts, I now can say I should pass the quiz on friday with flying colours. 

Whether you like it or not, I am going to give you some study tips:

1. Never study within one hour of your exam. This will actually hinder you causing your brain to stress. It will not hold this information well, and it could cause you forget something else that you had studied earlier

2. Study the subject throughout the entire semester. Just a review of the days notes would be fine, make a few flash cards/study notes. This is actually the most efficient way to study. Reviewing every night implants the knowledge into your mind and will help you stay nice and calm for the exam. If you haven't studied throughout the semester, try to study between 1-2 weeks before the actual test.

3. Have a good night sleep. Your mind will be well rested and will be able to think more quickly with a longer sleep period, and better quality sleep. NO RED BULL! (before a test).

4. Eat breakfast. Not a granola bar. Try for cereal and toast, or fruit. Eating breakfast wakes up your mind from it's sleep. Remember it has been 10-12 hours since you have last ate. Also this tip is healthy for you. Breakfast keeps your metabolism working great, skip it, and your metabolism is sluggish.

5. Breathe. Train yourself to stay cool and relaxed. Anxiety causes silly mistakes and will often cause you to second-guess your answers. Especially on multiple choice. Remember, on multiple choice, always go with your first instinct, as it is probably right.

Don't think I'm just preaching to the choir. I am trying to follow these steps as well. And with a little luck, I'll persevere and come out with some amazing marks, well the best I can achieve. If you try these suggestions, you will probably see some drastic mark improvement. But they are just suggestions, do whatever works best for you.

yours truly,

Amos13

picture courtesy of http://farm1.static.flickr.com.27/43939826_ed0f1c296d