How to Study for ExamSteps for Successful Outcomes

Calumet College Student Peer Advisor (SPA) TeamFatma Aidarus

Located at Room 202 & Room 130 Calumet Collegecalpeers@yorku.ca

Myths and “University Tales”

• “University life is hard, Professors are mean creatures!”

• “Exams in universities are hard and you are bound to fail!”

• “Exams in university need special studying technique”

• “If you don’t understand the materials being taught, you are doomed!”

How to Prepare for your Exams?

• Study, study, study

• Everyone has a technique or a way of grasping information and lecture material.

• We all have a unique style of studying and how we understand our course materials:-

• For instance - We find ways to interpret what is being taught to us, we simplify terminologies...

Things to Consider when Studying

•Do not wait until last minute

•When reading your course materials or external resources pertaining to your course, try to find meaning to what you are reading

•Do not Cram! Courses and exams usually measure students’ understanding for what they have been taught thus far- Try to understand what you are reading or talk to your course Director or your fellow classmates.

Things to consider when studying...

•Try to have more information on the course topics and subjects- use external resources in addition to your lecture notes and course materials.

•Interpret what you have read to your own understanding, that way you are able to map out how to answer the question when asked.

Things to consider when studying...

•If you are concerned or stressed about the course material, seek assistance from the lecturer, T.As or even form a study group where you can brainstorm ideas and so on...

•Study groups have shown to be an effective way to study (trick is to find the right people with the same goals in mind, TO STUDY!)

****As mentioned, everyone has a unique way of studying....

•****As mentioned, everyone has a unique way of studying....

•However, the basic steps of learning and studying are somewhat similar

Basic Steps• Start Early, Start NOW!

• Constantly read and revisit your notes so as to be familiar with the course material...”PRACTISE MAKE PERFECT”

• Schedule a time during the each week as study time, try your best to maintain the routine - This will help you stay focused and be on your A game!

Basic Steps...•Mentality:

•Never think that you are too good or too clever for review session or extra help, if available... The more you use the services available (i.e SPAs/ ARAs or even tutorial leaders etc...)

•We are learners and we should use whatever resources we have available for us!

Basic Steps...•Try to find time where you can fully

relax. You need to be at your A game when it comes to the exams and when it comes to studying for it as well

•Again, if you have any concerns with the readings, approach the Professor/TA and ask for clarifications.

Additional Suggestions...

• If there are prep exams available, try to practice answering them and get a feel of how the questions are... They might be different but it never hurts to try.

• Most likely, exams would be multiple choice. Make sure you answer ALL questions and at most guess the one answer (choice) that best addresses the question.

• Don’t forget SLEEP WELL before exams! You are allowed to take breaks and most importantly you deserve a rest