How I Handle Examinations

This week's writing prompt takes me back to my high school and college years - seasons I cannot easily forget. As a competitive student back then, I have a lot to share about my experiences taking examinations. I experienced passing with excellent scores. I also experienced failing and disappointing myself big time.

Even today, I am still a part of the academe. Since I am currently taking my graduate studies, examinations come and go to me.

I want to share how I prepare myself when examinations come my way! Hoping you learn a thing or two!

Photo by Scott Graham on Unsplash

I take charge of my schedule.

Usually, professors give their syllabi and schedules in advance. In my case, most of them have dates for examinations and due dates for passing their required projects. I take note of these dates and put them in my calendar so that I know how to manage my schedule given these deadlines. The last thing I want is to cram for these dates.

I read my lessons weeks prior, not the night before

As a graduate school student with other responsibilities, I couldn't emphasize the importance of time management. So whenever I find a chance, I read my lessons in advance. This way, I already have a working knowledge of the subjects my professors will discuss. I also re-read my previous topics to be sure I understood what we had tackled.

I forego some leisure for quality reading time

I watch Netflix and Disney+, and when I get hooked on a certain series, it is not easy to let go. But I remind myself that my examinations and projects will not wait for me until I make it to the final episodes of my favorite series. Either I pass them or fail them. This is where proper time management comes in. I have to balance my leisure in order not to compromise my reading and study time.

Coffee (and, as I grow older, vitamins too!)

Inasmuch as I want to stop the hands of time, I have to admit that I am growing old and I do not have the same stamina I used to have in high school.

Several times I have to drink coffee when I have a looming deadline or examinations. It gives me an additional boost and keeps my mind awake. Some of my subjects require a lot of reading and research, so I have no choice but to extend my waking hours. By God's grace, most of the time the sacrifice pays off.

But I have to make sure I am taking vitamins as well. I do not want to compromise my health just because I want to pass an examination. I couldn't emphasize the importance of proper time management more.

As of writing this piece, I have a deadline set for next week. And as early as now, I have to ensure I am reading my lessons and preparing myself for the Big Day! As a working student, I know the value of every penny I spend on my tuition fee, so I make sure every penny counts!