Why prepare?
- It is important to be well-prepared for an exam, as it will not only enhance your chances of performing well, but it will also help to handle possible exam nervousness.
- Find an exercise here
Begin your exam preparations from the beginning of the semester.
- The earlier you begin, the better you will be able to create an overview of the exam curriculum.
Make clear what you are expected to be able to do.
- Exams are rarely just about being able to report the course literature, but also about what you are able to do with it. The Intended Learning outcomes can be a useful way to understand what you are expected to be able to do at an exam. Read more here.
Read the literature with the intention to understand it.
- Do not just read the course curriculum to memorize it. Work with it to understand it and compare it to what you already know.
Know your weak points – don’t ignore them.
- Make sure also to study on the parts that are a bit blurry to you.
Use the exam preparation as an opportunity to learn.
- You can stage yourself as either the victim of an exam, or as the driving force for new knowledge. Choose the latter!
Know when you peak!
- Plan your exam preparation to make sure you are mentally ready for the exam and know under which circumstances you perform best.
Accept your nervousness!
- Being nervous can actually help you perform better, and it is completely normal to get nervous at an exam.
Train your communication skills.
- Work with your voice, gesticulations, pace and how you present yourself.
Your lecturer and external examiner are there to help.
- Your lecturer and external examiner ask questions to help you fulfill the course goals. Enter the discussion with a positive attitude and do not be afraid to ask them to elaborate or rephrase their questions if you need it.