Description: Private maths tutor Samarth shares his tips on the best ways students can start preparing for their exams and the best techniques.
Exams. All of us have to go through them at some point in our lives. They can either be in the form of an informal test or have the potential to decide our future. Whatever the case, revising well and effectively for them goes a long way.
Different Techniques
Everyone likes to revise in different ways. Some make flashcards, others read notes and memorize. Others plough through numerous practice questions. At the end of the day, all these methods can be useful, dependent on the subject.
It’s important for the student to best choose which exam technique has a profound effect on them. This can ultimately help achieve the highest grades possible.
Nevertheless, subjects tend to differ in terms of the best way of revising. For example, it would make sense to do loads of practise questions for maths, as opposed to reading through notes or flashcards. The best way to improve is through practice in both timed and untimed conditions.
On the other hand, preparing for a language or biology exam would perhaps entail reading notes or memorizing flashcards. These types of subjects require strong theoretical knowledge. Doing practice questions would help as well, but it wouldn’t have a profound effect on doing them for maths.
Timing
Over the course of an academic year, students tend to be faced with tests and assessments on a term or even half-term basis. This is to firmly keep them on their toes. Therefore, it is important to make sure there is a structure to the revision plan and that students manage time effectively.
It is also wise to start preparing for a test at least a week before it happens, to give students sufficient time to cover everything set to be examined.
Studying in England means GCSEs and A-Levels are during Years 11 and 13 respectively. During these periods, especially GCSEs, exams tend to be quite close to each other, sometimes even multiple exams in one day.
It is crucial to start revision early. It is advised to potentially start revising a month before, to best-put students in a confident position. A huge aid to students would be to make a revision timetable to be compatible with their exam schedule.
Remember to Relax
Aside from that, it is important to stay calm and focused. Exams can be stressful. The pressure from parents or peers to do well can sometimes take its toll on a student. So, relax, remember that there are many others in the same boat, at the same time, wanting to do well too.
If students ever feel overwhelmed or stressed, the ideal approach would be to speak to someone they trust, such as a parent or close friend. It does not need to be revision 24/7. Regular breaks help greatly with concentration and levels of productiveness.
Ultimately success in exams isn’t guaranteed. It’s about how students perform on the day and their techniques for preparing for exams. There are many factors that come into play. Ensuring they are well-prepared goes a long way to obtaining good grades, and it can be done, just with a little belief and patience.
By tutor Samarth. Contact Us