Expect the Unexpected

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During lectures, the terms and concepts may look easy to understand. However, when it comes to the exams, DevCom subjects said “NO”! Based from my first experience of a DevCom exam, I will emphasize that you should really expect the unexpected. It is because these exams do not just require one to memorize. There should be understanding.

Here are some tips that may be helpful in surviving DevCom exams:

1. Pay attention to the lectures. It is important to listen attentively because some of the important points that are being explained were not included in the lecture slides. Take down notes for these may also be helpful when reviewing.
2. Know your most comfortable way of reviewing. We have different styles on how to absorb information easily. You must be able to determine which suits you best so that you will not have a hard time in memorizing the terms and understanding the concepts.
3. Avoid cramming for the exams. Do not expect that you will be able to put all the information in your mind in just one sitting. Manage your time properly. Also avoid reviewing too much hours before the exam because the information tends to be mixed in our heads, and may cause mental block.
4. Focus. This is applicable not just in reviewing before the exam, but also while taking the exam. Focus on the test questions. You may skip some parts and go back later if you cannot figure out the answer. Do not be pressured by your classmates who are already passing their papers.
5. Eat and Sleep. Most importantly, make sure that you are taking care of your body. Eat a proper meal before the exam. You may also opt to eat your comfort food like chocolates. Have enough sleep especially the night before the exam. It is always important to rest your mind after absorbing a lot of information.

The exams that we took were just the firsts of our “ideally” four-year stay in the college. There were a lot more to go and I am sure that the things listed above – the ones that I failed to do for the first exam – will serve as my #LessonLearned in surviving the exams of DevCom subjects.