How to prepare for entrances
It’s time
for entrance exams again, you might be a student (12th, graduate,
postgraduate) or a potential job seeker, the common thread that binds you is
the impending competitive exam and the strenuous journey your about to embark
to ace it.
Instead of spending
sleepless nights worrying over it, why not plan it in a systematic way so that
it might not become burdensome. First thing first, know the exam inside out your about to appear for, that is, be well versed with the syllabus, various
topics and weightages allocated to each topic so that you can map an effective
plan. Also, familiarize yourself with the exam pattern by attempting the previous year question papers.
Make a time
table:
For this you
need to thoroughly self-evaluate, figure out what all needs your attention,
what is your week and strong point and then set realistic study goals, so that you
can manage your limited time in an effective way. Points to remember while
making a study plan is to assign a time to study, don’t study at a stretch, take a
short interval in between and the most crucial would be to dedicate more time
to hard subjects. Remember the purpose of a time table is so that you have
enough time to prepare for portions you’re not confident about and to reinforce your
strong points. Don’t make excuses and adhere to the plan because making a schedule
is easy but following is what helps you clear the exam.
Make preparation
you nucleus:
Simply don’t
mug up the content, try understanding the concept as it lasts longer. For
example, for the English portion of an exam you need to remember word meanings
for synonyms, antonyms etc. There are two ways to approach this either
memorizes as many word as possible or use the same words in a sentence, this
will help you remember them with context. Don’t forget to jot down points while
studying so that you can easily review them when you later on revise. Revision
is essential part of any exam as it jogs the memory on concepts that you might
have done way back. So always schedule time for revision.
Self-evaluation:
This is a pivotal
part of any competitive exam or rather any exam. You need to make a self-assessment
if you are planning to crack the entrance. This will tell you where you rank
and how much you need to improve in order to roll on with fly colors.
This could
be achieved by attempting as many question papers as possible or you can join an
online test portal that conducts exams you are preparing for. It could be free
or might cost you depending on what exam you are giving.
Few points
to note, create your practice test environment coinciding with the real exam, set a timer and if possible practice on the allotted time you might have to appear. This
ensures that your body and mind are attuned with the entrance exam schedule and
you are fully alert on the day you give your entrance.
Be sincere while
evaluating otherwise you may have a false sense of your progress, which will do
more harm than good.
Keep a
positive and confident attitude:
You may not
have started with a lot of confidence, but after attempting few question paper your
confidence must be soaring. Keep a strong hold onto that attitude, with short
time and the exam approaching you may feel pressured or stress but remember you
have planned all of this for the D day.
Don’t strain
and stress yourself as the exam time nears but just relax and do light physical
exercise/ meditation to keep down your anxiety and proliferate your concentration, also don’t skip meals while preparing for your exams.
As the big
day arrives, don’t be late to your exam center as there are protocols to be
followed that will take more time, carry all the necessary documents/id proofs/photocopies/medical
certificates. Also, a word of caution don’t try to learn any new concept on the
previous day of your exam. You have worked hard for this day don’t panic and be
confident and you’ll clear it. Best of Luck.
