Never Study “Everything”
Once you’ve discovered the type of test facing you, you need to
figure out what’s going to be onit (and hence, what you need
to study). Remember, it’s rarely, if ever, “everything.”
At most, do a cursory review of material you are convinced is simply
not important enough to be included on an upcoming test. This will
automatically give you more time to concentrate on those areas
you’re sure willbe included.
Then create a “To Study” sheet for each test. On it, list specific books
to review, notes to recheck, and topics, principles, ideas, and concepts
to go over. This method will minimize procrastination, logically organ-
ize your studying, and give you ongoing “jolts” of accomplishment as
you complete each item.
Test Yourself
Just as you have made it a habit to write down questions as you study
your texts, why not try to construct your own tests? The harder you
make them, the better prepared and more confident you will be when
you confront the real test.
Practice tests offer some real advantages, whether you’re studying
for a weekly quiz, the SAT, or your bar exam. In fact, the longer and
more “standardized” the test, the more important it is to be familiar
with its structure, rules, and traps.
First and foremost, familiarization with whatever type of test you’re
taking is vitally important, as it enables you to strategically study the
material (prioritize) and strategically attack the test (organize).
Familiarization breeds comfort and being comfortable—relaxed—is
a key component to doing well.
Chapter 8 ■ How to Study for Tests 185