Summer is upon us, as the days are getting longer and nights get lighter. Exam season is fast approaching for students across the globe.
In a normal year, you only need to revise the material and show up at your assigned time. Because most exams are now conducted remotely, it's important to make some extra preparations.
We've got your back, no matter if this is your first time taking online exams.
We have compiled these top tips to help students succeed on their online exams.
1. Establish a positive environment for revisions and exams
Create your own exam environment and revising environment.
Every situation is unique. Living with others who also work or study from home can make this difficult. Ideally, you should have a private and quiet place to work.
To work effectively, you need a flat surface. Anything you can find, such as garden furniture or cabinets, will work to create a flat surface that is stable.
If you cannot work in a group space, use headphones to reduce noise and politely ask other people to do so.
2. Notify family and household members about your exam results and study schedule
Make sure everyone knows when you will be taking the exam. This will enable them to plan alternate arrangements and minimize interruptions.
Try to find the quietest time to study if you use a communal area of the house. You can use headphones or earplugs to block out any distracting background noises when you work in a shared area.
3. Make a mock exam paper using online exam conditions
To get comfortable with the exam process, you can often use a mock paper when sitting in-person exams. Ask your tutor to let you have a try at the mock exam with the software you will be using.
To test if your exam conditions work for you, create them yourself.
This is an excellent opportunity to verify that your space has good internet connectivity, that it can be used for work, and that the software can be accessed easily.
4. Do software checks during the day
Prepare for the exam by being ready and set up 45 minutes prior to the start of the exam.
Pre-exam checks may be required depending on the portal you're using to take your exam. This could include holding your ID up to the camera and scanning the room with the laptop's camera.
It is very important to check that your microphone and webcam are working as well as your internet connection. Many portals will use them to confirm that you aren't cheating. Your internet connection may disconnect or the camera fails, so be careful.
5. Find out who to contact for technical difficulties
Even with all of the practice runs and checks made in the world there is always the possibility that something will go wrong. But don't panic! Don't panic! Your tutor will give you contact details for someone who can assist you in technical issues.
This person's phone number can be saved so you can contact them quickly if required. Their contact information can be used to contact the invigilator. If the issue is not resolved, your exam will be paused or extended.
6. Wear comfortable clothing
As we all know, one of the best things about taking online exams is the ability to show up in your pajamas.
You are not allowed to leave the room during the exam. Therefore, make sure you wear something you like and that you're warm enough to last the entire exam.
It is important to read any exam guidelines prior to taking the exam. It could be watches, hooded sweatshirts, or coats.
7. If you have multiple exams take breaks
If you were taking in-person tests, you would naturally take a short break between each one to discuss with your friends how it went. You can do this, and you should!
Once you have submitted your answers to the exam, you can get some fresh air by calling a friend and asking them how they found it.
This will allow your mind to shut down for a while and allow you to get a good rest before you head into your next exam. Hydration is key to keeping your mind clear and focused.
8. Keep track.
It is important to treat it just like any other exam.
You can click through the pages and read every question before taking the exam. This will enable you to know what you are getting so that you can formulate the answers.
You will find an invigilator or large clock reminding you of time during a normal exam. Make sure to check the clock often and keep track of the time so you don’t suddenly run short.
Related article from CollegeBasics: https://www.collegebasics.com/blog/how-to-get-the-best-online-exam-help/

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