How do you actually study?

[Criticalthinker]

I go over all the IC flashcards, read all the info, no matter if I got the answer correct. If I missed it, I retype the answer in.

Do you wait until you can answer all the flash card questions correctly, or do you count on recognition and visual memory to take you through the exam successfully?

I am getting most of the flash card questions correct, in prep for Humanities, and the ones I miss, make me slap my forehead, and say "Duh".

Basically, I wondered if most people take the test when they get all the answers correct on IC? I have seen a few post who said they ran through the cards once and then took an exam....?

Thanks
CT

[spazz]

My study plan is as follows. I go through IC, until I am almost getting every question right, then I will go take the first petersons test. Depending on my score, I will either go back to IC or take the other petersons. Then if I do good on the petersons, I will schedule for the exam. But who knows, I am kind of new to this, the only exam I passed so far was sociology.

[Urbannaja]

Originally Posted by Criticalthinker

I go over all the IC flashcards, read all the info, no matter if I got the answer correct. If I missed it, I retype the answer in.

Do you wait until you can answer all the flash card questions correctly, or do you count on recognition and visual memory to take you through the exam successfully?

I am getting most of the flash card questions correct, in prep for Humanities, and the ones I miss, make me slap my forehead, and say "Duh".

Basically, I wondered if most people take the test when they get all the answers correct on IC? I have seen a few post who said they ran through the cards once and then took an exam....?

Thanks
CT

So far, i've only gone through the IC flashcards one time through. I never type in the answers, just think about the question and read the explanation carefully. I'd probably do better if I went through the flashcards more, but I have difficulty finding the time =) I've yet to try any practice tests. For me at least, just getting a good jist of the material seems to be enough.

[homeslice]

My 1st attempt - Though I do my best to guess the answer, I've found it best to just go through the first couple of times without really knowing or getting it all perfect.

Using google and mw.com to research any terms or people that are new or that interest me helps (usually it's opened in new windows, so I can read after or while I study by instantcert).

On the next "go-throughs" - type the answer.
If I forgot or answer incorrectly, type the correct answer in the box on the explanation page. This helps me remember it better next time.

Repeating the questions and answers aloud, to myself sometimes keeps me more focused which aids absorption of the material.

I repeat and repeat until I know the material well. The test is usually scheduled during this process - when I can tell I will pass or I know I'll study enough to pass. Being goal oriented, sometimes I schedule the test and THEN study. Just for motivation. What??? I like to panic! Kidding!

I go through Instantcert with whatever time I have - 1 hour today, 3 hours tonight, etc.

PS. People remember what happens at the beginning and the end of an event or story. I give myself frequent breaks (every 20 or 30 minutes) to increase the chances to remember.

[Criticalthinker]

Thanks for the ideas...I too read/recite aloud to myself sometimes in addition to retyping. It all seems to create pathways to my brain that play back answers or familiar terms when I need them. (hopefully) I think it is important to analyze one's learning style.

I like looking stuff up in the Wikipedia when something interests me. Keeping a window open to Google or whatever is a good idea. Sometimes I make up association phrases to help me remember...really corny or bad ones...like "Rodin in Hell" for remembering certain artists and their works...

I study early in the morning a lot. I also sit down at the computer and just run one section when I have a few minutes during the day.

I also go over the practice tests that I have to review all my answers, right or wrong.

Most of this type of study is when I have to remember facts, as opposed to applying concepts. That's much easier for me.

Cheers,
CT

[beckysharp]

I don't remember the link, but Snazzlefrag gave an excellent 10 step program that he uses for study. I'm sure he would repost if asked.

[snazzlefrag]

Originally Posted by beckysharp

I don't remember the link, but Snazzlefrag gave an excellent 10 step program that he uses for study. I'm sure he would repost if asked.

Here's a link to the thread:

http://www.instantcertonline.com/for...ead.php4?t=456

There is no single right way to study, the above list is just my way to study. If you find that a different method works better for you, use it.

Good luck,
Snazzlefrag

[mrpaul]

Snazz had a great 10 step program for studying. The best guide I have read so far, and thats including the ones from professional's in the field.

Here are 7 steps that are more releated to test preparation that I would like to share it with the board.

1. Get a good night sleep. Taking test when your tired could cost you a question or two or more.

2. Determine your sharpest time of the day. Schedule the test when you are the sharpest. I am sharpest at 10am. Most people tend to get sluggish around 3pm. Yet the test center has many people taking tests at 3pm?

3. Schedule the test in between meals. Dont schedule a test at 11:30am. Your brain will start thinking of food instead of the test when its 12:45 and your racing against the clock on those cleps.

4. Drink coffee or tea 20 minutes before the test. Caffeine is a powerful brain enhancement drug. 1 cup of tea is perfect my system. I know it makes me sharper. Too much caffeine is worse than none.

5. Emotional state needs to be positive. Do not take the exam if you are sad, mad, angry, guilty, shameful, fearful or lustful.

6. Detach yourself from the rest of the world before the test. Put your game face on and focus. For example, refrain from driving to the exam with blaring negative music. Best to turn the radio off completely.

7. Pray or meditate (same thing) before the test. The christian folks out there may want to try the St. Joseph of Cupertino for success in Examinations prayer http://www.ecatholic2000.com/pray/prayer50.shtml

[ShotoJuku]

I use the basic R-R-R-R formula:
Repitition-Reinforces-Recognition-Retention

I think that speaks plainly enough, but the key to most exam success is the ability to recognize keys words and phrases and form a coherent link between them.

All of the methods listed - if they lead to success, are just as valid as any other, but I also rely heavilly on the use of practice exams that give me a better indication as to how the RRRR system is working.

[snazzlefrag]

Originally Posted by mrpaul

5. Emotional state needs to be positive. Do not take the exam if you are sad, mad, angry, guilty, shameful, fearful or lustful.

Haaaaaa!

I can't say that I often feel 'lustful' during an exam. Although, now that I think about it, my proctor is kinda dreamy. Just kidding!


Your "caffeine" recommendation is great. I have found that a cup of coffee, a cup of tea, or a chocolate bar does give me a bit of a kickstart.

I have also read research which suggest that chewing gum during an exam actually increases your brain function temporarily.

Coffee, tea, chocolate, chewing gum = GOOD
Leering lustfully at the test proctor = BAD

Sounds like a plan! Ha ha!

Welcome to the forum mrpaul, it's great to have you on board.