Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
Introduction
Continuing from our last article, we share a few more thoughts on what your examination preparation efforts should be like leading up to the big day.
Test your readiness before
Within your study plan, the final weeks should be set aside to practice questions and mock exams.
Approach these tests as though they were the real thing. Carefully analyze your scores to understand your exact position.
What questions are you doing poorly on and why? What strategies can you devise to simplify and understand those subjects?
Despite a poor score on your test, don’t give up. Give it another shot. The truth is that you may find it hard to concentrate while studying right now, with all that is happening in the world right now.
On top of this, the topics and exams are inherently difficult, which further complicates matters.
But, no matter what, stay optimistic.
Study in a clean space
It isn’t easy to focus in a cluttered space. Clean up your study area and organize your stationery every day.
Everything that is not related to your preparation schedule should not be on your desk.
The human mind is prone to premature fatigue when presented with a big task even before it gets down to it. Keep only the books you are using.
Remove distractions
It has never been more critical than now to turn off notifications and switch off the TV.
Let’s face it, every piece of news coming in now is negative. Give yourself a break and focus on self-improvement.
Insulate
Remote working has its fair share of challenges. Things suddenly get hectic, and you’re forced to multitask between work, the kids, the pets, bills, and everything in between.
It is twice as challenging when you are juggling all that plus studying.
But don’t despair. A simple technique such as locking your study room can effectively keep out all distractions.
Tell your spouse, kids, or siblings that you will be studying and are not be disturbed at certain hours.
Beware though. They will only respect your study time if you show that you are serious about it.
Study, sleep, de-stress
We have handled the study aspect. Now let’s focus on sleep and relaxation.
A fatigued mind is ineffective when it comes to memory and understanding. Get 8 hours of sleep each day to give your brain the rest it deserves.
In times like these, it’s easier to lose personal touch with the people that matter.
This can breed isolation and put you at risk of emotional un-wellness. Schedule time to spend with family, to listen to music, or attend to your interests.
Focus on the bigger picture
Career growth opportunities are mighty short commons these days. Companies are restructuring, downsizing, and finding more radical ways to save on costs.
New skills and advanced capabilities obtainable via certification can make you the solutions-person at work, positively impacting your career growth.
There is a steep demand for skilled risk managers that can think beyond hackneyed solutions.
These months that you have to prepare for the exam are in many ways the turning point of your life, with tremendous rewards in waiting.
Keep that in mind when you feel discouraged.
Set goals you can achieve
A look at most study plans reveals overambitious goals that ultimately turn out to be overwhelming and discouraging.
The trick is this; set small goals and do work towards them with consistency.
You may not be able to study for 4 hours every day if you have to juggle work and family on the side—in that case, go for 2 hours and make the best of that.
If you follow this tip, you’ll probably multiply your chances of success.
In closing
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The QuestionBank Family