Hi there!
Taking the board exam is really nerve wracking and the pressure is real (specially if your batch needs to get a 100% passing rate). I hope these tips may guide and help you get started throughout your journey on becoming a licensed professional.
1. Make a plan.
Don't just get your books and start studying. Make a plan. Schedule everything so that you have something to remind you of how much time you have before the exam. STRICTLY FOLLOW THIS PLAN! As much as possible, don't deviate from your planned schedule specially if you have limited time to study.
2. Organize everything.
Before studying, organize your books, notes, school supplies you need (ballpens, pencils, highlighters, index cards, sticky notes, etc). Make sure everything you need is there, so you don't need to go to a store/mall to buy school supplies and get distracted.
3. Choose a study spot.
Choose a place where you are most comfortable to study. In my case, it was my room. I never studied outside, like in cafes, since it will cost me money to buy high calorie foods (haha) and I won't be able to focus. It depends on you. The important thing is study where you are comfortable with.
4. Talk to your family for any needed support.
Your family is your best motivator and support group. Talk to your parents about your goals and struggles while reviewing. It will make you feel good. Share any difficulty you will encounter throughout your review journey so that they can extend any helping hand you need to get going.
5. Have a study group.
A study group is a great way to answer questions/ make clarification. It's good to study within a group but always remember to have a goal whenever setting for any group study so that it will be productive. Remember, time is precious when you're studying for board exam!
6. If you have questions, don't hesitate to ask for help.
Don't end your day with more questions than learnings. Always ask for help (whether from your professor, classmate or just make a simple Google search). Remember, before the day ends, you should have a clear understanding of what you've studied.
7. Practice answering sample exams.
Sample exams will help you anticipate what type of questions will be on the board exam. It will also give you an estimated time you needed to finishe answering a 200- point exam. Try getting used of answering sample exams and look for explanation to unfamiliar questions. Don't just answer and check.
8. Eat healthy and stay fit.
Eat healthy by having a balanced, moderate and varied diet. Don't starve yourself or eat too much high calorie foods. Remember, you only have limited time to study; don't let yourself gain weight and look miserable after the exam. Have a good exercise regimen too. Since studying entails a lot of sitting, do some stretch/walk/jog. It will help you have a good mindset and a fit body.
9. Have a sanity break.
Don't study the whole day/week! Have a rest. Relax your brain; go somewhere during the weekends, watch movie, sing a song, or play a game. Too much studying builds stress and pressure and results to short term memory.
10. Pray. Pray. Pray.
Always pray. It will give you confidence and strength as you are preparing for the big day. You don't need to make novena or memorize long prayer lines; just acknowledge and thank God for guiding you throughout your journey.
