Study Tips for Exam Success

Overview

• Presenter shares 20 top study tips used during university for exams.
• Tips are split into five parts: Target, Revision, Technique, Friends, Balance.

Part 1: Target

1. Scope the Subject

• Create a tree diagram representing all topics.
• Helps understand where each detail fits in the larger context.
• Use a traffic light system (red, amber, green) to identify weak areas.

2. Focus on Weaknesses

• Prioritize studying weak subjects over strong ones.
• Aim to bring all subjects to a high standard for exams.

3. Retrospective Revision Timetable

• Plan study sessions daily based on weaknesses.
• Avoid fixed timetables that often go unfulfilled.
• Track progress and color code topics based on understanding.

Part 2: Revision

4. Note-taking as a Waste of Time

• Passive note-taking is less effective.
• Focus on methods that require effort and active engagement.

5. Focus on Understanding

• Understand before memorizing.
• Use Feynman Technique: Explain concepts to a child.

6. Active Recall

• Test yourself to improve memory retention.
• Requires actively retrieving information from memory.

7. Spaced Repetition

• Interrupt forgetting curve by testing knowledge over increasing intervals.
• Consistent study over time is more effective.

8. Interleaving

• Mix different subjects during study sessions to improve retention.

Part 3: Technique

9. Practice Mock Exams

• Exams test performance, not just knowledge.
• Understanding exam style is crucial.

10. Use Intentional Flair

• Add flair to essays to stand out to examiners.
• Presentation and structure can positively impact grades.

11. Bank Points with Coursework

• Engage with coursework where possible to secure grades ahead of exams.

Part 4: Friends

12. Study with Friends

• Find motivated friends to study together.
• Use techniques like Pomodoro to manage focus.

13. Test Each Other

• Actively quiz friends to fill knowledge gaps.

14. Share Essays

• Pool resources and share notes to distribute workload.

Part 5: Balance

15. Create a Workspace

• Designate a specific area for studying to limit distractions.

16. Schedule Time to Unwind

• Balance study with scheduled relaxation to enhance productivity and well-being.

17. Enjoy the Journey

• Don’t defer happiness; enjoy the student experience.

Conclusion

• Consider using resources like Brilliant for interactive learning.
• Focus on effective study techniques to optimize exam performance.