We have all been in situations where we do not feel confident the day before an exam and end up panicking during the exam. I cannot promise that you will have a perfect score in your upcoming proctored exam after reading this article, but if you do these ten things, you will be more confident about taking an exam at the ATS testing centre.
Tip 1: Improve time management
An essential factor in preparing for an exam is time management. It is always a good idea to mark the upcoming exam dates in your calendar and set a time every week to read for a particular course because it helps you get more clarity of the concepts.
Tip 2: Set small goals
Setting small goals to avoid last-minute stress before the exam is essential. It is best advised to study throughout the semester, but sometimes the workload is very high, and with ongoing deadlines, it can be hard to keep track of the upcoming exam. Setting small goals helps in the long term and will motivate you to focus on the current task. Having a journal is the best way to keep track of your goals.
Tip 3: Create a positive study environment
A stable study environment can increase your concentration. Some ways to create a positive study environment are organizing your desk and ensuring that there is enough space for notebooks and computers, using bright light, and minimizing distractions.
Tip 4: Use visual aids
Visual aids can help you revise your course content. Use flowcharts and diagrams to make a visual summary of the important topics. You can also use sticky notes to write key concepts and stick them all over your room, which can help with revision throughout the day
Tip 5: Take purposeful breaks
According to research by Cornell University, taking purposeful breaks while studying helps increase productivity, energy and ability to focus. Some ways to take a break are going for a walk, power napping for 15 to 20 minutes, listening to a podcast, or drawing. If you are someone who cannot keep track of time while studying, the Pomodoro technique can help you manage time.
Tip 6: Practice meditation
“Meditation means dissolving the invisible walls that unaware has built.”- SadhguruAccording to some research, 48% of Canadian students experience a lot of stress. Stress can lead to anxiety, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and mood swings. Meditation is the key to controlling your thoughts and can help you calm the mind during stressful situations. Furthermore, it can also help increase concentration and focus on the present.
Tip 7: Avoid junk food
According to research from Options for Youth, eating a well-balanced diet has improved memory, alertness, and faster information processing. Furthermore, eating unhealthy fats and foods high in sugar can slow down productivity.
Tip 8: Read on the go
It can be hard to keep up with the readings when projects and assignments demand your immediate attention. Some ways to do the reading on the go are downloading electronic versions and audiobooks.
Tip 9: Take part in class discussions
Participating in class discussions can help you learn new concepts, process information better, and stay awake in long lectures. Furthermore, it can also help you develop a good reputation with the professor.
Tip 10: Prioritize Sleep
According to the National Library of Medicine, optimal sleep helps in reducing stress, increasing concentration and providing you with the energy to study for more extended periods. It is essential to sleep for at least seven to eight hours before the exam to increase performance.
Bonus Tips:
Drink plenty of water
Revise course material before going to bed
Avoid last-minute preparations
Teach others
Listen to podcasts, music, and the most important thing, do what works best for you.
