Most who have gone through the school system can clearly recall the panic they felt when they realize that an exam is coming up in a few days - one that they totally forgot about! If you are in this situation, don't fret! Several people have been in these situations and handled it. There is still time to study, but you will have to do it properly - here's how!
CALM DOWN. The last thing to do at this point is panic. But you are smart enough to realize you need to study days in advance. Some study the day before. Some people always study this way.(Although it's not the ideal way to study.) Remember, if you have had decent attendance, did a halfway reasonable job doing your assignments, you actually have a lot of knowledge already. This main knowledge will help you throughout your test.
DONT PANIC! Panic will only make your situation worse. You will be focusing on the horror, and not the upcoming test. Many times, panic can even deter your chances of doing well on the exam. If you panic, take deep breaths (try not to hyperventilate), and think that you CAN do this.
Determine the Material that Needs Covering. Most exams cover specific subjects and material, and it is important to know the material you need to study, otherwise you may be using your study time incorrectly. Ask your teacher about the subjects you will be tested on and what chapters you need to cover? What period in African history? Are diagrams important? Ask your teacher if you are unclear, as they want you to succeed.
Make a Study Plan. It may seem like a basic and simple task, but people who make a detailed study plan often have an easier time with studying and they have more time to relax and chill reducing their stress. When making a study plan, realize how much time you have before the exam date. Is the exam in a month? Did the teacher spring the test on you? Is it a mid year exam that has been building since the start of the year? Depending on the time frame, your study plan will be either long or short. Determine what subjects you don't know as much about and include more study sessions on these topics. The aspects you know more about still need reviewing, but they will come easier, so try to focus on the more challenging topics.
What Will the Exam Look Like? Find out what is covered by the test, and types of questions will be on it (multiple choice, essay, word problem, etc.) Find out how much each section is worth. If you do not know, ask the teacher. This will help you know what will be the most important sections, and how it will be presented.
Take note and ask questions.. It's never too late, and the sessions before the exam usually are review; just what you need. If you are studying and happen to come across a part you can't understand, write it down. Ask your teacher either during class or during office hours. And don't worry, you aren't dumb if you ask questions. Questions mean that you're actively paying attention, and you're learning. Besides, a question ahead of time could mean a better grade on the exam.
Find Your Resources. Your textbook, notes, online sources, classmates, teachers, and possibly your family members can all be of use. Old assignments are especially good, as some exams have questions directly off homework.
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