Top tips to prepare for exams

Editor: Social Media Rep Chloe studies a creative subject and the exam period is not the same as those studying a more academic subject. That doesn’t mean that the preparation is different though. Read on to find out more about Chloe’s experience and her top tips.

Chloe Baxter

Contemporary Art and Illustration BA(Hons) – Fourth Year

Hi, I’m Chloe. I’m a final year Contemporary Art and Illustration student at Huddersfield. I’m very interested in creating surface pattern designs and large scale installations. The majority of the work I produce has been inspired by nature and my adventures around the UK/EU. Last year, I decided to set up my own business ‘Chloe Baxter Design’ with the help of the University’s Enterprise Team. This has allowed me to start making money from my art practice. I’m also part of the Enactus Society at the University, where we with various local charities and organisations to try and improve the lives of people in Huddersfield.

While others are having timed written exams, on my course (Contemporary Art and Illustration) we are assessed through verbal presentations, a long essay, project work and an exhibition.

Picture of an art exhibition Having to present an exhibition piece to my peers has been challenging.

Presenting an exhibition piece and being able to talk about it to my peers and assessors is something that I have found most challenging during my exam periods. Until recently I would have been terrified to even think about standing up in front of a group of people and present my work. However, when on my Enterprise placement year, I pushed myself to do every presentation I could and discuss my work with my peers regularly. The presentations that I did last year allowed me to win the placement award for ‘Best Final Pitch’ and secure funding for my business.

I also presented at the National competition with the Enactus Huddersfield society. It was here that we were crowned rookie champions and I am very proud of this. Doing these presentations have definitely helped me in building my confidence and helped me to talk about the work that I produce.

Enactus Huddersfield Society at award evening The Enactus Huddersfield Society at the national competition.

Practise, practise, practise!

My advice to anyone preparing for an exam is to PRACTISE! This is so important. I wouldn’t be in the position I am today without doing this. From my experience I have found that rehearsing a script and taking mock exams really help me. I’ve been able to identify the areas that I need to improve and perform better in the real exam. I would suggest dedicating a couple of hours each day on the run up to your exams to practice and revise. Don’t leave everything until last minute! This way you won’t feel swamped by the amount of revision you need to do. When I was preparing for my last presentation I asked my friends to come and family to watch me rehearse. Having them there to encourage me was so useful as it helped me to feel more comfortable and confident in what I was saying. This was also a brilliant way to get feedback from my peers and suggestions on how I could improve. 

Love lists

Another thing that I have found especially useful is making lots of lists and flash cards. These have really helped me to pin down my ideas and keep on track with all the tasks I need to complete.

Picture of a journal and magazine by Chloe Baxter Journal and book for revision.

Look after yourself

In the run up to exams I have found that it is important to find a balance between studying, part time work and seeing your friends. University studies should be your priority, especially during the exam period (you will have time to celebrate after!).

At times studying can be stressful and overwhelming. I feel that this statement will run true with the majority of students. Something that helps me to manage everything is through creating a schedule. This schedule helps me to organise my studies/exam prep, make sure that I take breaks, eat regularly and get a good night’s sleep. From my experience I have found that if I have a good night’s sleep, I have more energy and determination to complete all my tasks the next day.

Choose the right place to study

When I am preparing for a presentation/exam I have to be in a quiet relaxing space, free from clutter and distraction. If these conditions aren’t met I struggle to concentrate. When studying is so important to be in the best environment for you. When I was in my first year at University I needed a quiet space to revise so I used the library at the University – it’s open 24/7 for the exam period. It provided me with the safe and quiet working environment that I needed. I would definitely recommend coming here to study, especially now they have a chill out and refreshments area - the Scholars’ Rest. If you want to study as a group or make sure you have a quiet space to yourself, I would also recommend booking a room in the library. These rooms act as a little sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of university life. The perfect place to study!

You’re not alone

Preparing for an exam may sound difficult but we can all do it. If you’re ever feeling like its too much or you just need to talk, make sure you know where to go. Here at the University there are people to help you. You don’t have to go through this alone. We have a range of services available through the wellbeing team and the advice centre in Students’ Union to help support students through the exam period.