Taking an academic exam is one of the most significantly important exams that anyone can take in their life. These tests open our lives to a multitude of academic opportunities no matter if you are a graduating student in the United States or a foreign student hoping to study abroad as a way to improve their lives.
For those test-takers who are not native speakers, nor had the benefit of studying in an English-speaking country, preparation for these exams can be a very stressful and daunting task made even more difficult when neither the secondary/tertiary education that you received nor the materials that you have available in your country for your preparation meet the standards that you are trying to achieve.
Below I have outlined 8 tips that I use with my students in Peru when they are preparing for their exams. Whilst there are many more tips that you can follow, I find that these form an excellent basis for a successful preparation program.
1. Set up a Study Schedule and Follow it Religiously.
When studying for any exam, being 100% prepared is the key to success for the majority of people. Having a study schedule, following it religiously, and not neglecting it by allowing non-test-preparation diversions to influence your time is the first, and one of the most important tips for students who are preparing for any exam.
2. Familiarize Yourself with the Test
Understanding the test structure, instructions and the type of questions you will be asked is one of the most important things you need to know before taking the test. Not knowing the structure of the test, how it is presented is a guaranteed way to lose points and achieve a sub-par score.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice
Set aside time on a regular basis to take real, full-length practice tests. Use a timer to get accustomed to the time limits, and try to pace yourself so you have enough time to answer all of the questions. After finishing each test, check your answers and then devote a sufficient amount of time to reviewing the questions that you got wrong.
Materials are available through a variety of sources such as physical books (Available at most book stores or online), from suitable websites (Both free and pay-to-use materials are freely available on the internet), or by enrolling in an institute for preparation classes.
4. Reading, Reading, Reading
Find and read materials that are based upon academic subjects, either physical or virtual, and allow time each day to read, learn and practice your skills.
Also, there are many books available, either virtual or physical that are specifically designed for practicing and improving your skills for your chosen test.ç
5. Study in an Institute or with a Private Teacher.
If you find it hard to study on your own, you may want to consider taking a test preparation class. Some institutes offer remote or in-person programs or study groups, and you may also be able to find a teacher who gives private prep classes in your area. When you don’t understand an answer, having a teacher can be a big help.
If you want to work on your skills at your own pace or feel like you’d achieve better results from personal attention, a private teacher may be a better choice for you. Private teachers are able to focus on exactly what you need to understand to ace your test, but this type of prep is of course more costly.
6. Exercise Your Memory
Most exam preparation books list some important and helpful study formulas for you at the front of each section. With enough practice, you should be able to memorize them, which can help save you time during the actual test.
7. Increase Your Vocabulary
On top of taking practice tests, you should also practice reading challenging books and articles. Just about any book that meets the appropriate level that you can get your hands on could help you to prepare for the reading comprehension passages. When you come across an unfamiliar word, highlight or underline it, then look it up. This will pay dividends for your whole life, not just when it comes to a test score.
8. Study on the Move
There are many preparation apps available to use on your smartphone. By downloading these to your phone, effective lessons will be in the palm of your hand and will help you to track your progress and prepare for the test wherever you go.
If you give yourself plenty of time to study and use some of these tips, then you’ll be prepared to face the tests with maximum confidence.
Good luck and good studying!
Everything That You Need to Know About the IELTS and TOEFL
Tests Plus Links to Important Study Tips.
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