Preparing for Tests

 

CREATING THE BEST STUDY PLAN FOR YOUR STUDENT

We believe that one of the most effective test preparation strategies is starting early and remaining organized. By following this strategy, students can ensure that they will have had enough time to study and can sit down for their tests more confidently, knowing they have diligently prepared. When students start studying as information is learned, they minimize stress and reduce the number of opportunities for procrastination.

ROADMAP FOR TEST PREPARATION

For best results, test preparation should not begin during the last few days leading up to a test. Ideally, test prep should begin as soon as the test date is announced, and the final days before the test should be dedicated to reviewing concepts and honing understanding of important details.

We have devised a simple step-by-step process for studying that begins well in advance of test day. This early preparation and ‘study-as-you-go’ approach reduces a lot of pressure for students during test week.

First, your student should look through their syllabi for any test dates. Doing so will help them organize a timeline for their preparation. Then, they should make note of topics to cover, readings to complete, and even include regular, dedicated review time in a planner. Such preparation strategies will apply to a wide range of classes but may need to be adjusted based on specific needs or applications.

Additionally, here is a list of best practices your student can use:

  • Read Actively: Questions on tests are often derived from textbooks and assigned readings, thereby making effective reading especially important for test preparation. Here is a list of active reading strategies to incorporate into your study routine, including annotating your readings. Engaging with text by underlining key concepts or taking notes in the margins will require a bit more time than passive reading, but doing so will streamline the test prep process and improve both comprehension and retention.

  • Take Quality Notes: Notes should be taken with intent. When you’re taking notes, whether from textbooks, in class, or for homework assignments, keep the test in mind and ask yourself, “What is the most important information that should be written down?” If your teacher provides you with lecture slides before class, consider printing them out and using the slide margins for additional notes. By printing the slides, you eliminate the need to rewrite main ideas and can therefore dedicate more time and attention to the lecture.

  • Review Your Notes: After each lecture, or at the end of the day, take at least 10-15 minutes to review your notes and lessons. Doing so will not only help you reinforce your understanding of the concepts, but it will also kick start your studying. During this time, you should also write down any questions you have or any additional thoughts you recall from earlier in the day.

  • Establish a Study Area: Using a distraction-free space that is dedicated strictly to studying will help keep you focused. Try to find a quiet area that gives you enough space to spread out and get to work.

  • Take Practice Tests: Psychologists have found that one of the most effective study techniques is to put yourself in a simulated test environment and quiz yourself. You might even try your hand at creating your own practice test; creating your own questions can help you understand the material to an even greater degree.

By incorporating the aforementioned strategies into their study process, your student will make information easier to retain, reduce stress, and eliminate the need for cramming.

PRIORITIZING TIME FOR STUDYING

Life inevitably gets busy, and your student, as a result, may need to make decisions as to which classes, assignments, or even tests take priority over others. Common scenarios include upcoming midterm or finals weeks, during which multiple exams are scheduled in close succession. To help your student make well-informed decisions in these situations, here are a few items to consider:

  • Time: Look at the dates of all your tests and prioritize the tests that are scheduled first. This strategy is most effective when all tests are likely to be equally challenging and will require similar amounts of time for adequate preparation.

  • Weight of Test: Consider the weight of each of your tests. If one test is more important or worth more than others, focus your energy here.

  • Difficulty Level: Study for the more difficult tests first, just in case you are short on time for the others. For more challenging classes, the early study method will be key to avoiding major last-minute conceptual questions.

In these situations, your student should also break down the number of hours they have available for preparation. Then, in their planner, they can block out dedicated study time to each class, with more time allocated to top priorities, as necessary.

APPROACHING STUDYING WITH PSYCHOLOGY

The attitude and mindset with which your student approaches studying can influence how effective their studying is. If they begin a study session with a negative attitude, for example, the amount of time they spend fully engaged will likely be less than ideal.

The following are some cues your student can use to better prepare mentally for their study sessions:

  • Think Positively: Go into study sessions with a positive outlook. Doing so will help keep you motivated toward your goals.

  • Think Objectively: If you’re frustrated or stressed by a test score, for example, try not to linger on your negative feelings; instead, think about practical ways in which you can improve. Doing so will keep you in a more positive and productive mood.

  • Avoid Comparisons: Don’t allow your thoughts wander to how other students might be doing in a class or on a test. Instead, focus on your own abilities and know what you personally need to do to continue improving.

Every time your student sits down to study, they should take a moment to prepare mentally and focus on their goals. When motivation is a bit lacking, reminding themselves that they are there to accomplish something important can help reframe their thinking. If negativity starts to creep in during a study session, they should take a moment to reset, taking a breath and refocusing on the goal at hand.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

 
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