Exams are a method teachers use to test how much of the course content the student has grasped. They come in applied and direct formats to ensure the student isn’t simply rewriting what is in their notebooks but is also in a position to apply it to real-world situations. As a diligent student, knowing and applying the right techniques is critical when studying for your exams. This is especially when it comes to science, subjects that demand technical understanding. Physics, for instance, is a natural science that demands that you not only grasp its formulas and theories but also be able to apply it in real life. This article highlights the wrong methods you could be using to study for your physics exam and how you can rectify this mistake for better performance in your exams.
Re-reading
Your tendency might be reading the same concept over and over again. In fact, the reason why you visit the library is to get some quiet time to read the same content you’ve been reading for a month. This is wrong! Physics is a science, thus studying for its exam encompasses not only the theoretical bit but also its practical aspects and applying the formulas in different questions.
Cramming
This technique is characteristic of last minute studying. Students tend to cram definitions and formulas in their mind and try to recall them while sitting for the exam. This is not needed as your learning materials and physics tuition will be enough for any exam. Thus avoid cramming as much as possible. Cramming is short term. To effectively study and pass your exam, allocate enough time for your studies long before your exam period.
Rewriting notes
While some students argue that rewriting notes helps them to memorise, this study habit is misguided, tedious and inefficient. As a student, you can agree with me that it is impossible for you to start rewriting 50 pages of notes for a physics exam tomorrow. Students who employ this are usually caught by time and end up covering only a very small portion of their coursework, leading to failure. For a successful study for your physics exams, especially within a short period, consider using self-testing or use past papers to test your mind. Where you get stuck, refer to your notes for a solution.
Connect the new knowledge to familiar things
While physics is a very technical subject, you need to have a broad mind while studying. With a broader mind, you will relate even complicated things like nuclear bombs and how they relate to common everyday items. With this technique, you can build your knowledge base by connecting it to a related concept. In the end, you will have a chain of relations in your notes making it easier for you to revise. This will give you a deeper understanding of physics topics and allow you to perform better in exams.
Finally, as seen above, if you are a physics student but your grades are still low, it is time you take a look at your study techniques as they might be the reason for your poor performance. If your study method is to blame, consider a change for better performance. If you are uncertain what is preventing you from doing better, consider enrolling for physics tuition for help on your study techniques and conceptual understanding.
