To improve your grades, try these exam study tips. These study strategies will help you absorb and retain information, so that you're prepared on test day.
Tailor Your Study Style to the Format of the Test
If possible, find out what format is being used for the exam. Will most of the questions be multiple choice? Will there be essay questions? Will you have to do word problems? Each type of test question requires you to focus on different types of information. While talking to your teacher, ask for any exam tips you can get. Sometimes teachers will give you hints that will help you know what and how to study for the exam.
Ask for Sample Tests
Some exams have sample versions or old tests available online for you to use as practice. For example, if you're studying for the SAT or another standardized test, you can buy a practice booklet or practice online with actual test questions from earlier versions of the SAT. Some college professors and high school teachers will provide old tests for practice if you request one. Many times you can glean what information will be tested from these old tests. This will also help you get used to the format of the test.
Memorize Formulas and Theories
If you're studying for a math exam, there's no substitute for plain memorization of formulas and theories. As you memorize each formula, practice it on a real math problem from the textbook. If you have trouble successfully completing the problem, schedule an appointment with a math tutor or the teaching assistant to make sure you understand how it works.
Practice Writing Essay Questions
If the test will consist of essay questions, you'll want to skim your notes, looking for possible essay topics. Write out or at least outline the answers to several potential essay questions, thinking through supporting details that will prove you understand the material that was taught.
Use Flashcards to Memorize Tricky Details
If you suspect you will need to know dates, vocabulary words or other details, make a set of flash cards using the facts you are having trouble memorizing. Just making the flashcards helps you to study; the process of looking up the information and making the cards will put the information in your head. Studying the flashcards will cement those facts in your memory.
Practice Dissecting Word Problems
If the test will consist of word problems, practice identifying the important information, functions and processes that are described. You can find sample word problems in your notes, the textbook and online.
Get Some Sleep
Of all the exam tips, this one is the most important. Get a good night's sleep before the day of the test. Start your morning off with a healthy breakfast as well. Late-night cram sessions simply don't work, because your brain functions best when your body is rested and nourished.