When it comes to preparing for your exams and end-of-unit assessments, sometimes it’s hard to know where to begin. Here are some simple strategies to make sure you’re ready to perform your best.
Use a diary
Record assessment information and key dates in a diary so you can see your assessment and exam timeline at-a-glance. Block out time leading up to the exam specifically for revision. It’s also a good idea to familiarise yourself with Deakin’s exam rules and procedures.
Be prepared
It’s always best to keep up with course content from Week 1 of the trimester, but if you’ve fallen behind this trimester, go through the course materials methodically over the course of a couple of weekends and write your own summaries. Here are some more tips on exam preparation from our Study Support team.
Revise, revise, revise
If you have exams, complete past practice exams. The more sample questions you attempt, the less chance that you will be surprised on the day. Flashcards, posters, audio notes and mind maps are some other ways you can revise effectively.
Don’t cram
Spend the evening before the exam reading your notes, planning your schedule for exam day, doing some exercise and getting a good night’s sleep.
Use stress to your advantage
Anxiety in the lead-up to an exam is common. And some anxiety can actually be beneficial in an exam: it can improve alertness and provide the burst of energy needed to get through a demanding situation. Breathing exercises, positive thinking and practising mindfulness are techniques you can use in the exam to help you avoid becoming overwhelmed.
And don’t forget to reward yourself after you’ve completed your exams and end-of-unit assessments, with something special!