Joan: Hi, why the long face?
Laura: Pfff, I’ve begun to study for exams and I’m worried!
Joan: Worried, why? It isn’t that bad! I have a few useful tips that will help you, so you can rest a bit more at ease.
Laura: Really? And what are those tips?
Joan: They’re a few basic guidelines that will help you really take the load off your mind.
Laura: Like what?
Joan: Well, to begin with, not waiting until the last minute to study!
Laura: People have been telling me that since I was little!
Joan: OK! Then you can add this. Take note!
Joan (voice off):
- Check to make sure that you really have everything you need to study, like class notes, documents, etc.
- Outlines or general charts of each topic can be really helpful, both to review material and to create a mental image during the exam.
Laura: But what advice can you offer me for just before the exam?
- In addition to double checking the date, time and place of the exam, it is also a good idea to give yourself plenty of time to get there. You need to be well rested, well nourished and properly hydrated when you come to take the exam. And it’s best not to have any stimulant drinks.
- Don’t wait until the day of the exam to learn how to relax. Relaxation techniques should be practised every day.
Laura: And during the exam?
- Be careful with your writing, your penmanship, and your spelling. You should also take into consideration the evaluation system specified in the exam.
- It is advisable to organize your answers either mentally or by creating an outline and to monitor your time closely. That’s why it is important to have practised a lot at home.
Laura: This way, the word ‘exam’ isn’t so scary!
Joan: It shouldn’t be scary at all. You can pass them all!
Laura: So, in a word …
Joan (voice off). The following list also appears on the screen:
- To give yourself time to study for exams, you need to check over the exams of previous years and practise them at home under the same conditions that you will have on the day of the exam. [Practice]
- During the exam period, be sure to sleep enough, to ensure that you are well rested. [Rest]
- During the exam, be sure to read the questions carefully and ask the professor about any questions that you feel you don’t understand. Also, don’t rush when answering. [Concentration and specification]
Laura: I really like what you’ve said!
Joan: Yes, and you’ll have to treat me to a coffee when you pass!
Laura: OK, alright!
