Wendel Abel

This can be a stressful time for many persons preparing for exams. Here are some tips for you students whether you are struggling with your preparations, way behind or even if you are prepared. I trust you will find them useful.

1. Create a schedule. Overview the work to be done. Develop a detailed schedule that sets out all the things you have to do. This should include the time you will be spending on a particular topic or subject.

2. Make a priority listing of the areas to be covered. This list should include the important topics and subjects. Do not waste time studying topics you already know very well. It is better to use the time to learn an important yet unfamiliar area.

3. Avoid the 'escape syndrome'. This occurs when you think about the amount of work you have to cover, become anxious and then start to put off important things. You may instead engage in activities such as watching television, talking on the phone or chatting a lot with friends. If you find that you are gettinganxious, just relax. Develop a study plan and start working.

4. Review the material which you have to cover quickly. Then decide on the key areas to focus on. Use your study guide or syllabus to guide you. It is good to remember the captions in a chapter. At the end of studying the material, either recite the information to yourself or a friend or write short notes. This will also keep you awake.

5. Study groups are helpful. Only join groups made up of students who are well prepared. Avoid groups that waste time. Always prepare your topic for your group and make sure you contribute to the group.

6. Study aids help. Diagrams and flow charts are helpful. You may have to review a particular area several times before you are able to understand it and recall it.

7. Avoid using too many text books. This can be unproductive. This is especially true at the CXC basic level. At the advanced level and at the university level, one may have to do extensive reading at times.

8. Ensure that you have adequate sleep. Most persons need six to eight hours sleep. A tired brain cannot function well. A well-balanced diet is important. It is difficult to concentrate or study when you are hungry. It is difficult to study after a heavy meal as an increase in the blood sugar makes you drowsy.

9. Find a comfortable area in which you can study. Make sure you are free from distractions. Avoid studying in your bedroom or in bed. You will fall asleep.

10. Subjects such as mathematics, physics and chemistry require that you do a lot worked problems that cannot be studied by heart. When studying for foreign languages practise and study your vocabulary. Literature requires that books be reviewed and subjects such as history require that you review lecture notes.

11. Get in a 'fighting attitude'. Tell yourself that you will pass your exams and reinforce this with positive affirmations. Your mental state is critical to passing exams.

12. Start studying now. Do not leave your preparation for the last minute.

As you prepare for exams, enjoy your studying and good luck!