You would think the key to getting good exam results was all down to revision but in fact a significant part of it is down to exam technique. What is exam technique? Well put simply it’s not about what you know but how you apply it, below are some general examples of good Exam technique.
The day before
By now you hopefully should have completed your revision and today should all be about refreshing your memory and reminding yourself of any key pieces of information, such as important formulae or key quotes. Do not start trying to revise new areas or go over past papers, this is only likely to lead to panic, it is inevitable that there will be areas that you have not prepared as well for as others, you can never know everything, however now is not the time to attempt to.
The night before
It’s important to be prepared for your exam and not just in knowing your subject, put your books down a good few hours before going to bed and make sure that you get a good nights sleep. Staying up until midnight cramming is going to have your head filled with information which will prevent you relaxing and getting a restful nights sleep. Make sure that you get to bed early and if you have an early morning exam that you set your alarm.
The day of the exam
Firstly make sure you know where and when your exam is, it may sound obvious but I’m sure that many before you have failed on this point. If your exam is being held somewhere new to you then plan your journey in advance to ensure that you arrive with plenty of time to spare, arriving late will only leave you in a panic. Think about what you are going to wear, you don’t want to be too hot but neither do you want to be too cold, a few thin layers should help you maintain a comfortable temperature. It is also important that you have something to eat beforehand, nothing too heavy other wise you will be dropping off part way through the exam but a light healthy meal that will prevent any embarrassing tummy rumbles, you want your concentration to be on your paper not on your next meal. Lastly ensure that you have everything you need, plenty of pens, calculator etc.
Most people get nervous before an exam but a combination of careful revision and exam technique should hopefully improve your confidence and your grade.