Prepare a study schedule - cramming for exams has been proven to be an ineffective strategy. Instead, try to space out your studying in advance of exams to improve your retention.

Organize a study space - remove distractions and ensure that you have all necessary supplies within arms reach. Make sure the area is well lit and organized. 

Consolidate your notes - organize your notes by subject/unit/skill. When you have collected all of the necessary resources, rewrite them into a new format that focuses on the most important information (check out the Cornell method if you're stuck - see below). 

Include audio and/or visuals - diagrams, videos, and charts can be great supplements to your notes. 

Review past tests & evaluations - past evaluations often have descriptive feedback that could indicate areas where you require additional review. Attempt all past questions that were incorrect. 

Teach the material to someone else - the protégé effect has been proven to improve student learning. Ask a friend, family member, or peer to listen and ask questions while you teach them a concept. 

Study with a friend/classmate - group study can be helpful, especially if you have gaps in your notes. Try to ensure that the group stays on topic and focused during the study session. 

Take regular breaks - taking regular, short breaks have been proven to improve focus and retention while studying. 

Arrange for extra help (if necessary) - teachers, peers, and tutors are all available for support. Be sure to reach out early!

Attend ALL classes leading up to the exam - throughout the semester teachers will be delivering key information, organizing practice evaluations, and providing very important information about the exam content and format. It is crucial that you are in class to get the full benefits. 

Arrive on time with all necessary materials - arrive 15 minutes before an exam begins and ensure you bring pencils, pens, erasers, calculators, rulers etc. 

Look over the entire exam before beginning - it is important to assess what you are being asked to accomplish within the exam period. This will allow you to better allocate your time to certain aspects of the evaluation. 

Take a few deep breaths to relax - repeat this throughout the evaluation. Review the stress management and wellness page of this website for more tips!

Read instructions carefully - read the entire question closely and seek clarification if necessary. 

Highlight each stage of a multi-step question in a different colour - chunking the question into individual steps will ensure that you address each necessary component. 

Answer the 'easier' questions first to help build your confidence - not only will you feel more confident, but you will also be securing the 'easier' marks before tackling the harder questions. 

Manage your time appropriately - if there are long written responses, or long multi-step questions, be sure to budget enough time to develop meaningful responses. 

Review responses before submitting the evaluation - If time permits, read through the entire evaluation to ensure that you have provided fulsome answers to each question.