Exams

Exams are an important part of many subjects at uni and can sometimes feel stressful. Below are some tips and strategies to help you prepare for your exams.

• Know the key dates and timetables for the assessment period. Students are required to be available during the entire assessment period.
• Know the rules for sitting an exam.
• If you have a medical condition or other eligible reason, make alternative exam arrangements.

• Learn about the test. Find out how long the test is, what kinds of questions (multiple-choice, essay, problem-solving) and what material it will cover.
• Prioritise material for review. Material that is difficult or unclear should be prioritised first, while material that is easy and clear should be prioritised last.

Tip: Go through learning outcomes, week by week, and assign each one a “hard,” “medium” or “easy” grade. Prioritise the hard material first.

• Create a study schedule in your calendar and plan to review relevant subject material before the exam (this may take several weeks).

Tip: Work backwards from the exam date and set several study goals along the way. Plan to have a final review of all relevant material a day or two before the exam.

• Use different study methods. Review and summarise notes, make flashcards, take quizzes, reread texts or explain key concepts to someone else.

Tip: Using different methods to cover the same material can help in learning.

• Take practice tests or questions (check subject LMS) to measure your progress.

Tip: Take any practice tests or questions under exam conditions to help you prepare.

• Form a study group with fellow students.

• Health and Wellbeing can support students with managing anxiety, as well as other health and wellbeing matters.
• Practice breathing exercises to help keep calm.
• Prepare under test conditions.

Still have questions? Do you want to talk to an expert? Peer Learning Advisors or Academic Skills and Language Advisors are available.