Strive Learning Center

How Successful Students Prepare for Tests

Are you really doing everything you can to prepare for tests? Re-reading the chapter and looking over your notes is not enough.

Below is a list of tips for test preparation from successful students

Keep up to date with assignments.
Take notes in every class every day. This includes asking questions when you don’t understand.
Process information as you come to it. Learning information is much different than "becoming acquainted" with it.
Process information systematically. Labeling in the margin works well for most people.
Adapt it to suit your learning styles. Capitalize on the discipline labeling in the margin requires and make it a habit to process information from texts and lectures, not just go over it.
Have a study place that is free of distractions.
Have a specific time for initial study of each subject. You may need more than this time, but having a set time will save you time.
Make summary sheets, flash cards, and practice tests.
Always carry some kind of pocket work and make use of wasted spare minutes by reciting and thinking about what you are learning.
Learn something new or difficult in your strongest intelligence, sense, or in your dominant hemisphere. Reinforce it as many different ways as possible.
Find a study partner or two in each class and routinely take turns teaching each other the material.
Prepare for each class as if there will be a pop quiz.