Writing and assignments

You may have to take many examinations and whilst some students prefer exams to coursework, many find the experience stressful, we want to change that. The purpose of exams is to demonstrate that you have understood the material that you have studied by applying it to new questions and contexts (the exam). Examiners are not trying to trick you, they want you to pass.

They expect you to answer the question set, NOT to write everything you know about the topic. You will be awarded better marks for focussed, relevant answers, which address all parts of the question and which are written in clear English.

Getting organised and properly preparing for exams will help you achieve.  Here are our top tips for exam prep:

• Create a revision timetable.
  • Make a list of revision topics and schedule them into your timetable.
• Find a study partner- encourage and support each other.
• Have a revision folder for each topic in each exam.
  • Put relevant class, lecture and reading notes into each folder.
  • Put marked assignments into the folders, follow up on the tutor’s feedback, find extra information.
  • Put any extra work that you do in the folders.
  • Review the folder contents and summarise into key words, ideas, theories, concepts and examples.
• Find places and times where you can really focus and try to minimise distractions: see Studying at London Metropolitan University - Focus

Active revision

• Practise different exam questions from past papers under timed conditions.
• Answer assignment questions linked to exam topics.
• Work with your revision buddy or a friend and teach them what you have learned.
• Reduce the big picture to key information. Summarise as key words on index cards.
• Don't just read your notes, convert them into something else- create flashcards, mindmaps, voice notes.

Pomodoro

This is a time management technique that can be very effective for revision. It uses a timer to set periods of focused work called 'pomodoros' (usually 25 minutes) followed by short breaks. You get a longer break after a set amount of 'pomodoros'. This helps keep you engaged in your revision, reduces distractions and can improve focus and concentration.

You can read more about the technique here: Pomodoro® Technique - Time Management Method (pomodorotechnique.com)

There are lots of free timers available online, e.g. Time to focus! (pomofocus.io) You can set the tasks that need to be done and adjust the timings if required. 

See more about time management: Time management - Studying at London Metropolitan University - LibGuides at London Metropolitan University

Before the day...

• Check you know the time, location, how to get there.
• What do you need to take into the exam?  Check any exam instructions.  Gather together anything you need.
• Think positive thoughts – I can handle this!  I’m so well prepared!

On the day...

• Arrive to the exam in plenty of time.
• Read the exam paper: always read the questions carefully. This is another reason why it is important to see past papers; so that the actual wording of the question does not intimidate or confuse you.
• Always plan before you write. Time spent planning is never wasted. Time spent writing without planning can be very wasted indeed.
• Do not run out of time. Time yourself.
• Write something for each question.
• Always start all the required questions.
• Answer the question, demonstrate your understanding and knowledge.
• Structure your answers. This is where planning before writing helps.
• Review what you have written. A few minutes checking your answer can make a difference to your marks!
• If you run out of time, finish questions in note form. This allows you to pick up points for key facts.
• Always cross out material that you do not want the examiner to mark.