12 Study Tips to Get You Through Exam Season

We're now into the first week of exams and it's full steam ahead. If you could do with some advice for revising or sitting exams then look no further! We've put together 12 study tips to get you through the exam season.

1. Visit the University's exam support website

Familiarising yourself with the exam support website can help you be prepared for exams. It has a wealth of information and advice from links to exam timetables, room finders, and past papers, what to do if you miss an exam or assessment, study tips, support services you can access, study spaces, etc. It's a one stop shop for all things exams! You can find the site here.

If you'll be sitting exams at UofG for the first time or need a reminder of what to expect in the exam hall, watch the university's taking exams video.



2. Make a study plan and set goals

Studying for long periods of time or studying without goals can make learning and revision seem dull and endless. Make a study plan and limit your study time - you're more likely to be productive. Set goals too so that you know you're on the right track.

There are some great free apps and printables that can help schedule your studying!

3. Reward Yourself

When you hit your study goals reward yourself! Snacks can be a great motivator as well as treating yourself to a fun activity like going to the cinema when you're finished working for the day.

4. Stay hydrated

Dehydration can cause tiredness, headaches, and can affect your concentration and memory. Drink plenty of water throughout the day. 

5. Take regular breaks and make sure to get a good nights sleep

Trying to focus after studying for a long time is pretty much impossible. Take regular breaks away from your desk to clear your head. 

Why not schedule a break during some of the on-campus de-stress events? The SRC, GUU, QMU and GUSA have plenty of free things to do to take your mind off of studying including dancing, yoga, paws4stress therapy dog visits, tea breaks, de-stress goody bag giveaways and more. Take a look at the schedule here.

Getting a good sleep is also important. It can help with retaining and processing information and can help with your mental health and stress levels too. There are tips for getting into a good sleep routine here.

6. Organise your desk or study in the library

It's hard to focus when your desk is covered in clutter. You know what they say - tidy space tidy mind. Clear your desk and keep things organised. If you can't keep things tidy at home - try studying somewhere else like the library or the round reading room.

If you're struggling to find study space on campus during the day, check out the SRC's pop-up study space page for Spring. 

The SRC have also partnered with the university library so that it's open 24/7 during exams (from Monday 15th April to Saturday 18th May). Some people work better at nights, so use the library to keep yourself from getting distracted at home!

7. Study with a partner

Studying with a friend can be great motivation, and you can discuss any topics that you're unsure of.

8. Listen to concentration playlists

If you can't be trusted to study with a friend without procrastinating, try focusing by listening to concentration music playlists. There are plenty on Spotify and Youtube.

9. Get some advice from the Learning Enhancement and Academic Development Service

... It's a bit of a mouthful I know, but they provide lots of great advice for different subject areas and they  have tips for sitting exams too. You can find all the LEADS information here!

10. Check out past exam papers

There's nothing worse than getting to an exam and finding out that the paper isn't how you thought it would be. Check out past papers early so you know what to expect and can ask any questions in advance. 

11. Ask for help

If you don't understand something or have any questions, get in touch with your lecturers. They're there to help so send them an email. Most staff members have office hours that you can go to where you can drop in for a chat in person.

12. Try study apps and websites

Mix up your studying and make it more interesting by using apps and websites. Quizlet is a great study tool, where you can create flashcards, games, and printables to aid your studying.

Good luck with your exams!