April 21 is the last day of the semester and until then, it’s all hands on deck as students will be preparing for the final exams.
This is a very stressful time for students, meaning they can use all the help they can get.
Sophia Talik, a student in the Carpentry and Renovation Technician program, said she has a lot of experience when it comes to preparing and writing exams. For each of her eight classes, she takes three examinations throughout the semester.
“My main approach to studying is reviewing and rewriting all of my notes while doing practice questions from the textbook,” she said. “I normally set aside a whole day before a test.”
All students know course material needs to be reviewed to be successful in an exam or a class. However, it’s one thing to read and review, it’s another thing to be an active learner.
“I find rewriting things makes the information stick more than just reading it,” Talik said. “It is also important to watch videos or look at pictures to visualize what you are learning.”
Talik said note-taking is an extremely effective way of preparing for a test.
Humber’s Student Learning Services (SLS) provides advice and tips for exams.
During lectures, students are required to take notes, but sometimes it’s challenging to listen and write at the same time.
SLS shares several techniques when it comes to writing notes.
“If your instructor provides PowerPoint slides ahead of the lesson, use the PowerPoint slides to take notes. If material is repeated in lecture from the textbook, they will likely be tested so take note of them,” it said.
It can be very time-consuming and stressful being a student in post-secondary let alone preparing for exams. That’s why students need to find ways to manage time and find ways to cool off in intense moments.
Talik said the best way to tackle an exam is “to split it off and plan out your day separating each course and ensuring you have enough time to prepare.”
SLS also said it is important for students to manage their time and they can do this by, reducing distractions — such as social media and phones — and consistently keeping track of due dates on a calendar.
Another key part of the process of preparing for an exam is to take care of yourself and manage your stress.
There are many ways to deal with stress. SLS said that practicing some breathing exercises can go a long way.
Talik shared what she does to help her get through this demanding time of year.
“Making sure to take breaks when needed and taking my time not to rush myself. I take breaks every hour and a half and watch a show in between study times,” she said.