So, you have a test coming up, and studying for a test is on your mind. Let's get you a good score, okay? Thankfully, you've given yourself a little bit of time before the test, so you don't have to rely on cramming. Studying for a test, even in just three days, can be easy if you do the right things. Read on for the details.
Studying for a test the night before
Studying for a test two days before
Studying for a Test Day 1: Ask, Organize and Make Flashcards
In School:
- Ask your teacher what type of test it will be. Multiple choice? Essay? That'll make a difference in how you prepare.
- Ask your teacher for a review sheet if he/she hasn't already given you one. (i.e. test content)
- Get a study partner set up for the night before the test if possible – even via phone/facebook/Skype.
- Take home your notes, old quizzes, textbook, assignments and handouts from the unit being tested.
At Home:
- Organize your notes. Rewrite or type them up so they're legible. Organize your handouts according to dates. Make note of anything you're missing. (Where's the vocab quiz from chapter 2?)
- Review the material you have. Go through the review sheet to find out what you're supposed to know. Read through your quizzes/handouts/notes and study questions from your book's chapters.
- Make flashcards with a question/term/vocab word on the front of the card, and the answer on the back.
- Stay focused!
Studying for a Test Day 2: Memorize
In School:
- Clarify anything you didn't totally understand with your teacher. Ask for missing items (that vocab quiz from chapter 2).
- Ask if there will be a review before the test tomorrow.
- Confirm study date for tomorrow night.
At Home:
- Set a timer for 45 minutes, and memorize everything on the review sheet that you don't already know using mnemonic devices like acronyms or singing a song. Take a five-minute break when the timer goes off, and get started again for another 45-minutes. Repeat until you fill confident in your knowledge of the material.
- Put your flashcards in your backpack for review tomorrow.
Studying for a Test Day 3: Study and Quiz
In School:
- Throughout the day, pull your flashcards out and ask yourself questions (when you're waiting for class to start, at lunch, during study hall, etc.)
- If your teacher is having an exam review today, pay close attention and write down anything you didn't learn the night before. If the teacher mentions it today – it's on the test, guaranteed!
- Confirm study date with a friend for this evening.
At Home:
- Ten-twenty minutes before your study partner (or mom) shows up to quiz you for the exam, review your flashcards. Make sure you have everything down pat.
- Quiz. When your study partner arrives, take turns asking possible exam questions to each other. Make sure each of you has a turn asking and answering because you'll learn the material best by doing both. Stop once you've been through the questions a few times and get a good night's sleep.
