Every Monday, firstpoint publishes five points about a topic related to life at university. This week, it’s all about exam and assessment preparation…
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 AND SUPPORT SERVICES
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: FANCY A BREAK?
Need a change of scene or a prompt to prioritise taking break during the assessment period? Fancy A Cuppa has been extended and will run every weekday from 6th– 16th May, from 1pm-2pm, in firstpoint as ‘Fancy a Break’.
These sessions are designed specifically for students who are navigating the challenges of assessment periods and provide an opportunity to de-stress and recharge, fuel up with a selection of free snacks and drinks, boost your wellbeing by meeting with fellow students and support staff, or simply giving yourself time and space to reset and relax. The Pets as Therapy dogs will also join on Tuesday 13th and Thursday 15th May.
You can find out more about the range of activities on offer on the Fancy a Break blog post.
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 Student Support & Wellbeing blogs for top tips on looking after yourself throughout your studies.
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, the Study Happy Resource List, and look out for information about upcoming Study Happy events on the Library Services Instagram or Library Services blog.
Please note, firstpoint is closed for the bank holiday Monday (5th May), but we will reopen at 9am on Tuesday 6th May and are here to help you if you need any support or guidance. You can send us an email (firstpoint@worc.ac.uk), give us a call (01905 542551), or pop in and see us on the ground floor of the Peirson Study & Guidance Centre.
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