How To Study for Exams

Exams can be tough, but with the right tools, they can also be empowering. I’ve been on a journey to discover effective exam preparation techniques, and I’ve found five evidence-based strategies that work for me.

“Success is neither magical nor mysterious. Success is the natural consequence of consistently applying basic fundamentals.”

— Jim Rohn, Entrepreneur, author, and motivational speaker.

In this article, I’ll share techniques that I practiced in several occasions and my favorite quotes that motivate me to succeed.

💡 Technique 1- Spaced Repetition

Have you ever crammed for an exam only to forget the material a few days later? One technique that has been crucial to my exam success is spaced repetition.

What is Spaced Repetition? Spaced repetition is a study technique that involves reviewing material at intervals that gradually increase over time. In other words, you review information more frequently when you’re first learning it and less frequently as time goes on. This technique is based on the principle of the forgetting curve, which shows that we forget information quickly after learning it but then forget it at a slower rate over time.

Implementing Spaced Repetition: There are several ways to implement spaced repetition in your exam preparation. One popular method is to use flashcards, either physical or digital, with spaced repetition software that automatically schedules your reviews. Another method is to use a calendar or planner to schedule your reviews manually. Whichever method you choose, it’s important to start reviewing the material as soon as possible and to be consistent in your schedule.

“I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.”

— Muhammad Ali, Professional boxer.

💡 Technique 2- Retrieval Practice

Another technique that has worked for me is retrieval practice. By actively recalling information, I’ve strengthened my problem-solving skills and reduced interference from similar concepts.

What is Retrieval Practice? Retrieval practice is a study technique that involves actively recalling information from memory rather than simply reviewing it passively. This technique is based on the principle of the testing effect, which shows that the act of recalling information strengthens memory and improves long-term retention.

Implementing Retrieval Practice: Create flashcards with questions on one side and answers on the other, and then quiz yourself on the questions. It’s important to space out your retrieval practice sessions and to be consistent in your schedule.

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

— Maya Angelou, Memoirist, popular poet, and civil rights activist.

💡 Technique 3- Retrieval Practice

Interleaving is another technique that has helped me apply knowledge to new situations and reduce the likelihood of forgetting information.

What is Interleaving? Interleaving is a study technique that involves mixing up different topics or types of problems during study sessions, rather than focusing on one topic at a time. For example, if you were studying math, you might mix up problems involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, rather than focusing on one type of problem at a time.

Implementing Interleaving: Create study sessions that mix up different types of problems or topics. Another method is to use different study materials that cover the same topic, such as textbooks, videos, and online resources. It’s important to space out your study sessions and to be consistent in your schedule.

“The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination.”

— Albert Einstein, Theoretical physicist.

💡 Technique 4- Summarization

Summarization has been key to my success in understanding and retaining information.

What is Summarization? Summarization is a study technique that involves condensing the information into its most important points. Instead of trying to memorize every detail, you focus on the key concepts and ideas. This technique can be applied to lectures, textbooks, and even your own notes.

Implementing Summarization: A popular method is to create a summary of each chapter or lecture after you’ve finished reading or listening to it. You can also create a summary of your own notes, condensing them into key points. It’s important to use your own words when summarizing, rather than copying directly from the text.

“Simple can be harder than complex: You have to work hard to get your thinking clean to make it simple. But it’s worth it in the end because once you get there, you can move mountains.”

— Steve Jobs, Entrepreneur, co-founder of Apple Inc.

💡 Technique 5- Self-Testing

Exams can be overwhelming, but this technique can help you retain information and improve your test-taking skills.

What is Self-Testing? Self-testing, also known as retrieval practice, involves testing yourself on the material you’re studying. This can include creating flashcards, taking practice quizzes, or reciting information from memory. The goal is to recall the information without relying on notes or textbooks.

Implementing Self-Testing: There are several ways to implement self-testing in your studying. You can also take practice quizzes or recite information from memory. It’s important to vary the types of questions you use to test yourself, as this will improve your ability to recall the information in different contexts.

“I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”

— Thomas Edison, Inventor of the light bulb.

Remember to personalize these evidence-based strategies to fit your learning style, and don’t forget to stay motivated with quotes and affirmations that inspire you. As the popular affirmation goes, “I am capable, I am strong, and I am prepared to succeed.”

Thank you very much for reading my article!