The Observer, December 1, 2006
Volume XXXIX, Issue 12
Just in CASE...
...you need a good grade on that final exam
The end of the semester is upon us, which means finals are right around the corner. Following these study tips can help you do your best on exams.
Organizational Tips
Make a list of what needs to be completed for each course. Also list what you need to study for each course. Writing down what you have to do gives you a sense of control. Also, you may be surprised to discover that it's not as bad as you think.
Determine your current grade for each course. Using this information, you can decide how to allocate your time and whether you need to take an elective course as Pass/No Pass. Check with your professor before you make any major decisions regarding a course.
See your professor if you have questions about any end-of-the-semester projects or the final.
Get an ESS Finals Calendar, which is available the last few weeks of each semester. Use this calendar to write down what you need to accomplish each day.
Divide your study days into three segments: morning, afternoon, and evening. Jot down goals for each segment. Use the lists that you made for each course to plan your time.
Talk with your Resident Assistant or Commuter Assistant if you are feeling stressed out about your finals. These peer mentors will have some practical suggestions for handling test anxiety. Also you may want to talk with a staff member from ESS or University Counseling.
Attend the last week of classes. Your professor may offer some last-minute tips on how to prepare for the final.
Study Tips
See if a tutor will be available to work with you at the end of the semester.
Use old practice exams to begin your preparation. Take one as a pretest to help you decide what you do and don't know. Use a second exam towards the end of your preparation to check your progress. Take this second exam under the same conditions that you expect for the final.
Create review sheets that summarize key points and formulas. This activity will help you to sort out and organize course content in a format that makes sense to you.
Keep in touch with your professor or teaching assistant through e-mail in case you have any last-minute questions.
Create a study group or ask your Resident Assistant or Commuter Assistant to organize one. Study groups can create review sheets and help group members stay on schedule.
Attend review sessions scheduled by your professor, teaching assistant, SI Leader, or Commuter Assistant. Use these sessions to determine how prepared you are for the final.
Ask your professors how you may pick up your graded final. A review of your graded final will help prepare you for your next set of finals.
If you have an extended illness or a personal crisis that affects your class attendance or ability to complete your finals, contact Undergraduate Studies, Sears 357, 368-2928.
