As diploma exams are looming this month and finals are coming up for many students, we could all do with some tips and resources to help us crush those exams. Luckily for you, I’ve compiled an array of methods and resources you can use to help you succeed in your math and science courses! Using these tidbits of information, you’re guaranteed to bump up your exam marks by leagues and miles as long as you put the effort in. For incoming high school students, you can use these tips to be prepared ahead of time and breeze through your upcoming years.
General Tips
- Pay attention in class to what your teacher specifically focuses on; many instructors will flat out tell you what is going to be on the exam.
- If you are having trouble in class, make an effort to ask your teacher questions and get help.
- Do all of your assigned work on time whenever possible. Leaving things until the last minute often results in stress.
- Start studying a couple days before the exam.
- Don’t cram the night before a test. Getting a full night’s rest statistically leads to better results than pulling an all-nighter.
- While taking a test, keep track of time and pace yourself.
- Usually, for every multiple choice question there will be two answers which don’t look right that you can immediately cross out.
- If you still can’t figure it out, you’ve got a 50/50 shot at being correct.
- For harder questions, mark them with a star and move on. Come back to them near the end once you’ve dealt with the easier questions.
Spaced Repetition
- Spaced repetition is a studying method where you test yourself using flashcards over a length of time.
- Instead of rereading textbooks and taking notes you probably won’t even look at, spaced repetition is an evidence-based technique that you can use to memorize information easily.
- Spaced repetition is based on the concept of “retrieval,” where your brain remembers things better if it has to dig into your memory and retrieve information.
Anki
- Anki is an app you can download on your computer that acts as a tool to generate and review flashcards.
- These flashcards operate on the idea of spaced repetition, and will be your best bet at memorizing formulas and info.
- Guides to Anki can be found below.
- Anki can be used for math, physics, chemistry, biology, and any other course that needs you to memorize information.
Science (Chem, Phys, Bio)
- For your science courses, a great youtube channel to check out is Organic Chemistry Tutor. He’s got videos for almost anything you’re stuck on!
- Another great channel is Bozeman Science.
- Finally, for practice problems and supplemental learning, don’t forget about the classic Khan Academy.
Math (Precalculus, Calculus)
- Organic Chemistry Tutor’s precalculus playlist is the way to go.
- For any students learning calculus, one of the best resources you can use is Professor Leonard! His style of teaching is slow, methodical, and clear – I absolutely recommend him.