At one point in your life, you’ll have to take an exam. You’re probably already familiar with taking them from your school days. That means you’re also familiar with the crazy amount of work and preparation that goes into taking one.
Despite this, there are ways to make passing easier. These tips and tricks will get you through any assessment, whether it’s a standardised test, a licensing exam, or anything in-between. Follow one or all of these suggestions, and you’ll be sure to pass!
1. Go to a Training Center
Sometimes studying by yourself isn’t enough. The most effective way to prepare for an important assessment is with trained professionals. Training centers usually provide you with a huge variety of tools to prepare for exams such as classes, seminars, and study materials. Plus, they all specialise in different subjects.
For example, say you were trying to get your contracting license. Places like Contractors Institute offer a contractors training center first-time success guarantee. Sometimes all it takes is one try, because of places like this! So definitely consider checking out a training center to ace anything that comes your way.
2. Try Studying
It may seem obvious, but it’s true. If you want a surefire way of passing an exam, studying is your friend. The good thing is, there are so many ways to study. This means you can find the perfect way that works just for you. Here are some classic and efficient ways to study:
- Flashcards
- Rewriting notes
- Re-read the material
- Teach what you’ve learned to someone
- Create mental tricks for better memorization
- Study with a friend or in a group
- Draw diagrams to help recall
Try to make time to do at least one of these. Even if you’re getting help at a training center, you still need to put the work in at home. While they seem boring, these tactics might be the one thing that’s keeping you from getting that A, so try one out!
3. Practice…and More Practice
While this might seem like studying, there is a slight difference. Just because you know the material you’ll be tested on, doesn’t mean you’re ready for the questions you’ll be asked. Try to find out if the exam is multiple choice, short response, fill in the blank, etc. Then make a test for yourself, or even ask a friend to help. It’s possible there may even be practice tests online.
Remember, taking just one test isn’t enough. Take multiple practices that will quiz you with a variety of questions. Make it a game, and try to beat your high score every time!
4. Take Care of Yourself
Something that lots of people forget when it comes to exams is self-care. Your brain works better when you take care of yourself! Here are a few questions you should ask yourself before taking your exam:
- Have I eaten a balanced meal?
- Have I gotten at least 8 hours of sleep?
- Am I clean and wearing comfortable clothes?
- Is my bag packed with everything I need?
Try to check off at least 2 of these, because you probably won’t do your best when you’re hungry, tired, and uncomfortable.
5. You Have to Stay Motivated
Trying to learn all of the material you need to is a long and hard process. Sometimes you burn out, but being able to pick yourself up and get back to working is key. Finding ways to stay motivated will make you so much happier in the long run.
Try working out a rewards system to keep you going. For every hour you spend working, you get 30 minutes to watch your favourite show. Or after you spend a day working, you get to go out at night with your friends. The more motivated you are, the more you can get done.
Now, all that’s left to do is pass your exam, and make yourself proud!
