Exam Survival Guide

posted in Other on 4/17/2014

Achieve the best you can by following these simple steps

NOTE: these are my opinions and some of the things I do when revising. The apps I mention are based on my personal opinions, i am not being paid for it. The songs mentioned are my personal favourites, im not saying them to promote users.

Step 1: Get Organised
-You should plan in advance time for study and leisure, remember to be realistic
- tidy and organise any notes you need so that its easier when it comes to revising
-by doing this I feel as though it clear the head so that you study better

Step 2: Find the Perfect Study Area
-if you have a desk, use it. You should always keep it clear so that its ready for use.
-NEVER study in a messy room.
-if you cant find a quiet place in your house, most libraries have small areas for people to study, plus theres internet access.

Step 3: Unplug
-put your phone on airplane mode so its less tempting to procrastinate.
-if you have no choice in the matter, either use and actual computer or temporarily delete social networking apps (or any you feel you spend a lot of time on). Its only for a short time - you can do it!

Step 4: Manage Time
-this is why you should put your phone on airplane mode, rather than turning it off
- Its good to set timers on your phone so you can keep track of how long you study/study breaks
-be strict on yourself to take only a short break now and then

Step 5: Eating Right
-avoid caffeine, go for alternatives, such as decaf, juice or water. Everyone is different so just drink what you prefer (hot/cold)

Step 5 contd
BRAIN FOOD:
-Bananas - good for metabolism for the power to sail through exams.
-Apples: natural sugars in them have proved to be more effective than coffee (plus theyve got a clean cut taste to them)
-Nuts and seeds are a healthy alternative to crisps

Step 6: Atmosphere
Music can relax you, or distract you. you should make a long playlist, avoid dubstep and metal. Megamixes from soundcloud are always great, plus theyre long enough that they could cover one full study chunk (best to work in 25-30 "chunks") (I'll post at the end my favs)

Step 7: Preparation is Key
-make sure you have enough and the right stationary (HB pencils, black or blue pens etc)
-use highlighters to brighten up your notes, plus its a good study technique go through your notes, highlighting the main points, it keeps info fresh in your mind

Step 8: Remember to unwind
- Stop studying at least 3 hours before planning on sleeping. You could watch a film, go for a walk or run a bath.
-I prefer to rehearse my dances or just put on a good song and do some cardio, it gets you moving and dancing is a good stress reliever.

Step 9: Try to enjoy it!
-i know its weird but if you have a positive attitude about revision and exams, it will make you happy to do the work
-its worth the effort and hard work in the end
-you only have a few years of school so make the most of them!

Favourite Apps -Simple Student (make notes, guides and planners) -Flashcardlet (make custom flashcards or download for free) -SQA My Exams (for Scottish Students only - for exam dates) -SQA My Study Planner (links with exam app, makes a study planner for you and you set priorities on subjects)

Favourite Megamixes on Soundcloud (not promoting any user in any way) -"ARTPOP megamix" - user: ncfb97 -"Lady GaGa - MegaMix" -user: LadyGagaGe