*You can also listen to the new Kent Voices Exam Calm podcast to hear from Kent students and staff about how to get the most from your revision*
Current student Ellie shares her top tips for how to prepare for exam season:
1. Make the most of the Easter break
Just because exams are online, don’t think this means you won’t need to revise and prepare. Make the most of the Easter break by using this time to go over all of the content you’ve studied throughout the year, and to practise how you will answer exam questions. Of course, also use the break to relax, but don’t forget that it is also a great time to catch up or get ahead on work.
2. Be aware of how you’re going to be examined
Exams run differently in different subjects and modules, so don’t assume that every exam will be the same. They also often differ from coursework in style, length and criteria, so it’s important to be aware of how this might change the way you revise. Make sure you’re adapting your revision techniques to this, and that you read through different example questions to get an understanding of how the exam will look on the day. Also, if you do any wild modules, it’s important to consider how different schools mark and examine as this could be very different from what you’re used to! See the Guidance for Online Exams 2022.
3. It’s never too late to start
The run up to exams can often feel overwhelming for students, and it can be tempting to keep putting off your revision. However, it’s important to start as soon as possible, as any extra time you can put towards exam preparation will help you! If you’ve found yourself in a position where you feel it’s too late to start, DON’T GIVE UP! Start now as it’s never too late to get some extra practice in, and it really will help you when you’re under the pressure of an exam. Check out the Planning, Revision and Preparation for Online Exams webpage for lots of advice to help you get prepared.
4. Make efficient use of your resources
As most exams are online, this often means that you are allowed to use your notes and textbooks (but please check for each individual exam before assuming this). However, don’t let this become a safety blanket to ignore working hard. Go through your resources before the exam and make note of important quotes, pages and articles that may be relevant later so that you can access them efficiently under timed conditions. This will help you in the actual exam as you won’t be rifling through hundreds of online articles whilst trying to get your answers completed in a short space of time. There are plenty of online resources including time planner templates so you can make your own revision timetable.
5. Try to keep a positive mindset
This is easier said than done, but keeping a positive mindset about exams can really help you to remain confident and do well. Try to remember that exams are simply a way to show what you can do, and that as long as you’re prepared and you try your hardest, there’s nothing more you can do. By keeping a positive mindset, you can really focus on what needs to be done to achieve the grades you want. The Exam Calm website also has tips, resources and events to help you prepare, connect and be calm during the exam period.
We hope these tips help you feel a little more prepared, and that you can use them to impact the way you revise and prepare. Good luck in your exams!