How to prepare for exams as Degree Apprentices

Exam preparation can be difficult, especially given the time constraints that apprentices face. As a CEDA student for the past two years, I’ve been able to refine several strategies in order to better manage my time during tests, which I’ll discuss here.

1. Create a Plan

Make sure you acquire your exam schedule and make a plan to go along with it. To ensure that I have enough time, I usually begin revising for my last exam first and the first last.

2. Recognise the difficult modules

If you’re having trouble with a certain module, be aware of it and look for help. There are various ways to get help, but I’ll start by emailing my lecturers to clear up any doubts, then look for textbooks, videos, and any other forms that would be helpful.

3. Work smart not hard

Establish goals that are both attainable and measurable. Make sure you have a clear plan in place and aren’t multitasking excessively, as this will reduce your productivity.

4. Do past papers and practise questions

Because I am studying Engineering, many of my exams involve calculations, and I have found that practising example problems and past papers are the most effective approach to prepare for them. Before the tests, I always make sure I do the questions at least twice.

5. Stay Organised

I completed QMP last year and will continue to do so this year. Staying organised is one of the most significant aspects of getting good grades, in my opinion. On the day of the exams, I make sure I have my engineering data book, any relevant notes, and methodology notes all in one place and easy to reach. On the day of your exams, the last thing you want to worry about is notes.

6. Exercise and stay calm

Exercising and maintaining a healthy diet has helped me focus. It’s not just about concentration; it also allows me to take a break from revision and give some time to myself.I also make sure to take regular breaks while studying, which I do so by using the Pomodoro method, in which I study for 25-35 minutes and then take a 10-minute break in between sessions and a longer break after 3-4 sessions.

I’ve included a few ways I prepare for the exams above, and I hope they’ll be useful to you. We all have different ways of revising and focusing, and it doesn’t matter which strategy we use as long as it works. I wish you the best of luck in your examinations.

Sabrina