In the digital age, more students than ever are required to take online exams. It’s common knowledge that studying for any exam can be stressful. Many students make the mistake of trying to cram revision the day before the test which then equates to more stress. It is also common for students to be overtaken by exam jitters. These five tips lay out a roadmap to online exam success:
1. Study smarter, not harder
The first step to having a successful exam experience is to be familiar with the content that you will be tested on. To create familiarity, it is imperative to take detailed notes. The key to creating powerful notes is to develop a consistent and effective note-taking strategy.
There are a few established formats that may assist in this process including Cornell notes, the charting method, and concept maps. A consistent format encourages readability which allows the student to easily absorb the information. The primary goal is to create concise, organized, and neat notes that highlight the most important concepts.
2. Preparation is key
In the words of Benjamin Franklin: “By failing to prepare, you prepare to fail.” Many students make the mistake of cramming for an exam at the last minute, and this almost always leads to failure.
It is in your best interest to study ahead to avoid overwhelming yourself. To avoid trying to do it all at once, it is suggested that you set aside a few hours every day to go over the material that will be included in the exam.
3. Check your tech before your test
Imagine you have spent weeks studying, you sit down to take the exam, but your browser is not compatible with the required exam website. Technical difficulties can be one of the most frustrating problems to have during an online exam.
To avoid this dreadful issue, check your technology before the test. Make sure your equipment is compatible with the exam software. If possible, do a quick test run on the exam website to make sure you will have easy access come exam time.
4. Take advantage of the resources provided
Utilize the resources around you to better prepare for your online exam. Many online institutions offer student support services that may help you devise study tactics to succeed on your next exam.
Academic institutions like Wilkes University offer online advice courses and webinars to help students prosper. Institutional resources may also encourage you to participate in study groups which will make learning a fun and collaborative effort.
5. Take a deep breath!
It is normal to feel a little nervous before a big exam. To avoid any unnecessary anxiety, it is vitally important to review the test material well in advance. It is also important to get plenty of rest, fuel your body with nutritious food, and practice some relaxation techniques. When you sit down to take your online exam, take a deep breath in, and remind yourself that you are prepared.
