Every Monday, firstpoint publishes five points about a topic related to life at university. This week, it’s all about exam and assessment preparation…
Don’t panic about your Exams and Assessments – there are things you can do to reduce the stress and make sure you are well prepared. Let’s get organised…
POINT ONE: MAKE A PLAN
Organisation is the key!
We know as assessment deadlines come up it can feel overwhelming- there is lots of support available – the fact that you are reading this blog is an excellent starting point!
Start by making a list of what you need to do and break large tasks into smaller more manageable sections to give yourself a sense of achievement when you can tick them off. Have a think about what to prioritise and check out the ‘conquering procrastination’ blog if you are finding it difficult to get going or keep up with the motivation.
Speak with your Personal Academic Tutor (PAT) and module tutors about revision topics. Find out if there are any practice questions available – getting used to the structure and style will help you to prepare.
Work out what kind of revision works for you – are you a note taker or a reader, do you like highlighters or post it notes, does it help to put things up on the walls or perhaps you can revise with friends in a group?
Take a look at the ‘Examination skills and memory techniques’ study skills page, for top tips for preparation and success.
Set yourself specific revision times and do not leave it to the last minute. By making a plan and allocating timeslots for specific tasks this will help you maintain your focus and concentration – make sure that you factor in time to relax and reset as well.
POINT TWO: USE STUDY GUIDES
If you just don’t know where to start, we have lots of useful study guides available on the Study Skills website. These cover topics like essay writing, minimising stress, organisation, taking notes and perhaps most importantly, starting your assignment and what does the question mean? Why not have a look to see if there is anything that could help you.
There is also support from the Academic Writers in Residence, The Centre for Academic English and Skills and from the Academic Liaison Librarians and you can arrange 1:1 sessions with each of these teams – come and have a chat with firstpoint if you’re unsure how to access this support.
POINT THREE: SPEAK WITH OTHER STUDENTS
Need a change of scene? Visit Fancy A Cuppa in firstpoint, on Tuesday and Thursday and look out for extra ‘fancy a break’ sessions being held throughout the assessment weeks. It’s a chance to meet with others and share tips for keeping well and avoiding stress. With hot drinks and biscuits, along with mindful colouring, wellness resources and card games – come and say hello.
The Student Support and Wellbeing team are also offering two pop up events – whether you’re starting to think about upcoming projects or diving into revision, these sessions are designed to equip you with helpful tips and tricks for success. Take a look at their ‘Wellbeing Check for Assessment’ blog post for further details on the sessions.
POINT FOUR: LOOK AFTER YOURSELF
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep – lack of sleep can have a negative impact on you and make you feel more stressed. Remember to eat well and regularly, memory and mood can be boosted by eating the right foods. Keep yourself hydrated – this will help you feel generally better and can affect your energy levels.
Take a look at the University’s Live Well webpage for tips on how to look after yourself and look out for the “Wellbeing Wednesday” blog posts online here and via your myDay page. They provide a weekly guide on taking care of yourself while you’re studying.
POINT FIVE: STUDY HAPPY
Study Happy is a year-round programme of advice and initiatives designed to help you study healthier, happier, and smarter. Find out more from the Study Happy from anywhere video (video 6:28), the Study Happy Resource List, and look out for information about upcoming Study Happy events on the Library Services Instagram or Library Services blog.
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