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 upcoming Exams and Assessments – We know as assessment deadlines come up it can feel overwhelming – there is lots of support available and there are things you can do to reduce the stress and make sure you are well prepared – the fact that you are reading this blog is an excellent starting point!…
POINT ONE: MAKE A PLAN…
Let’s get organised! Start by making a list of what you need to do and break large tasks into smaller sections, which feel more manageable. 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: WHEN IT’S TIME TO TAKE A BREAK…
Need a change of scene or a prompt to prioritise taking break during the assessment period? Our friendly Wellbeing Champions and ‘Fancy a Cuppa’ Team are running the popular “Take a Break”, every day between Tuesday 5th– Friday 8th May, from 1pm-2pm, in firstpoint.
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 us next week on Tuesday 12th and Thursday 14th May during exams, for extra wellbeing support during the usual Fancy a Cuppa sessions.
POINT FOUR: LOOK AFTER YOURSELF…
Make sure you’re getting enough sleep – a lack of sleep can have a negative impact on you, affect your concentration 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 and concentration levels.
Read through 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 and assessments.
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.
You may also want to set up a study group with friends or course mates, offering help and support with subject matter, revision tips and peer support…
We wish all of our students the very best of luck during their assessments and exams this month!
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