How I prepare for an exam and got A

Are you searching for a simple way to prepare for your exams? I'll share a straightforward method to help you absorb the necessary information and excel. Additionally, feel free to share your own study tips with other students in the comments section. What strategies do you use, and what advice would you offer to others preparing for exams?

Firstly, finding or creating a quiet, focused environment is crucial. One advantage of studying at school is the change in surroundings, which signals to your brain that it’s time to study. Transitioning from the comfort of your home to the structured environment of a classroom, school, or library can alter your approach to studying. In his book Atomic Habits, James Clear discusses how changing your environment can enhance your focus. If you’re studying at home, think about how you can mimic this shift. If you’re in a library, consider how you can maintain concentration. Remember, 70% of success is simply showing up. Find a study spot and make it a habit to go there regularly. This mindset change helps you switch from relaxation mode to study mode. Dedicate a specific space, even if it’s just a particular chair you use at a set time each day, and commit to being there daily.

The second tip is to treat your study sessions like actual exams. Picture yourself taking the exam right now—would you allow yourself to be distracted, or would you focus completely? Whether you're at home or in the library, act as if it’s the real exam. The distinction between followers and leaders is that followers feel forced to act, whereas leaders choose to act. You don’t need to dress up or create elaborate study schedules, nor do you have to decline social invitations. But if these actions could improve your focus even by one percent, why not give them a try? Take your study sessions seriously, and it might slightly boost your grades, sending a strong message to yourself and those around you.

Tip three involves digital organization. Complexity and lack of clarity can undermine your success, so stay organized. Create a calendar and adhere to it. Identify which areas need attention and allocate time accordingly. The more uncertain your organization and planning, the more uncertain your outcomes will be. Consider your study plan a form of self-care—organizing yourself is a way of investing in your future. When studying online, close unnecessary tabs, avoid multitasking, and resist checking social media. Focus on one task at a time until it’s finished, then move on to the next.

Tip four is about taking breaks and moving your body. Being sedentary can lead to mental fatigue. Neuroscientists have discovered that after 20 minutes of walking, brain activity increases significantly compared to 20 minutes of sitting. If you’re having trouble focusing, it might be because you’ve been sitting for too long. Aim for at least 6,000 steps daily. You can use your phone to track your steps, so a fancy smartwatch isn't necessary. Include a 15-minute walk in your routine to break up study sessions and stay active.

While these tips are useful, let's be honest—sometimes the material you’re studying is boring, and you’re not achieving the desired results. When the content is tough or tedious, how do you react? It’s crucial to remain curious instead of judgmental. The top students aren’t those who know the most; they’re the most curious. They ask the right questions: “Why did I get this wrong? What was my thought process? What should I have done differently?”