Social Science 378

The following tips may help you prepare for your examination:

Be Prepared

• Determine the type of examination you are preparing for and the material that the test will cover.
• Arrange a study schedule that ensures you will cover all of the required material.
• Avoid cramming. Have your review completed well before the examination.
• Prepare a few sample questions for yourself and write short answers for them without referring to your notes.
• Get adequate rest before the examination.
• Wear comfortable clothing. Bring a sweater or jacket in case it is cool in the examination room.
• Come with all of your writing equipment.
• Reduce examination stress: Before the examination, try to relax. Once you are in the exam room, breathe deeply and remind yourself that you are well prepared.

Writing the Exam

• First, skim the entire examination and read all instructions. Make sure you have all of the exam pages.
• Try to estimate how much time you will spend on each question. Let the value or number of marks assigned to each question be your guide.
• Begin with questions you can answer easily.
• Underline the key words in each question (e.g., discuss, compare, explain, contrast, list, describe, and outline). Then prepare your responses accordingly.
• Read the question over several times; be certain you understand what is being asked.
• Always formulate your answers in paragraph form unless the question specifically calls for some other answer form such as a list.
• Ensure that you number your responses so that they correspond exactly with the number of the exam question.
• Organize your short-essay answers as follows: