It’s Final Season! Tips & Resources

Oct 30, 2024

It’s final season! This time can be stressful for many, even with a lot of preparation. Student Resource Centre (SRC) is offering tips and resources to prepare for final exams.

Elaine Lyu, Coordinator, SRC, walks us through some tips to prepare for finals in “4P”s: Plan, Practice, Prepare, and Perform. Drop by SRC to find some resources and services available on campus and online, for wellness and success.

1. Plan

  • Create a Study Schedule: Start mapping out your study plan well ahead of the exam. Break it down into manageable sections for each topic. For example, if you have a math exam, set aside specific days for algebra, geometry, and calculus, so you don’t end up cramming at the last minute!
  • Set Clear Goals: Make your study sessions purposeful by establishing achievable goals. This can be as simple as “I’ll understand this chapter today” or “I’ll complete two practice essays.” Having clear goals helps you stay focused and keeps procrastination at bay.
  • Time Estimates: Instead of saying, “I’ll study this over a few days,” estimate the hours you’ll need. Block off generous time slots in your calendar, allowing for breaks and adjustments.
  • Organize Your Resources: Gather all your study materials—textbooks, notes, and online resources—into one tidy spot. This minimizes distractions and saves time when you dive into studying.

2. Prepare

  • Know the Exam Format: Familiarize yourself with the exam structure, types of questions, and grading criteria. This way, you’ll know exactly what to expect!
  • Create Study Guides: Summarize important information into concise study guides with a clear structure. Think of it like creating a mini textbook for yourself. Creating a table of contents or mind map can also help visualize the structure of study materials, making it easier to recall information during the exam!
  • Consider Academic Accommodations: If you’re eligible, don’t hesitate to seek accommodations through SRC that can support your exam performance.
  • Prioritize Well-being: Ensure you get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, and stay hydrated as you prepare. Regular exercise can also work wonders for reducing stress and boosting focus!

3. Practice

  • Practice in Exam Format: Just reviewing your notes isn’t enough! To really nail it, practice in the same format as the exam. For short answer questions, try writing down concepts and definitions from memory. For essays, draft outlines or full paragraphs to get comfortable with the structure.
  • Use Past Exams: Go through past exams and simulate real exam conditions. Time yourself so you get used to the pressure of working against the clock.
  • Teach and Summarize: Explaining concepts to someone else or summarizing what you’ve learned can reinforce your understanding. Flashcards can also be a fun and effective way to quiz yourself.
  • Active Recall: Instead of just reading your notes (“recognition”), actively test yourself on the material (“recall”). Cover definitions and try to recall them from memory or use flashcards for a more efficient study session!

4. Perform

  • Time Management: During the exam, keep a close eye on your time, especially for essay questions and open-book exams! Allocate your time wisely, so you don’t rush through the important parts at the end!
  • Read Instructions Carefully: Take a moment to thoroughly read all instructions before diving in. It’s crucial to know exactly what’s expected of you.
  • Handle Tough Questions Smartly: If you hit a question that seems too challenging, skip it and mark it to revisit later.

Remember:

No matter the outcome, remind yourself that it’s just one assessment. Each experience is an opportunity to learn and grow, so keep a positive mindset!

The SRC is the go-to destination for all essential academic, wellness, and career resources available at here or through UBC affiliate services.

Contact Elaine [email protected] or drop by Room 209 during school hours.