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Tips for Writing Online Exams (From Students)
Tips for Writing Online Exams (From Students)
Writing an exam can be a stressful experience but an online one comes with a whole new set of challenges.
We surveyed over 700 students and nearly 50% of them had already taken an online exam.
We’ve curated the highest-rated pieces of advice these students have so that you can feel a bit more prepared going into exam season!
1. Technological Stability
Tip #1
Get a stable network ready, close all unrelated tabs so your computer runs faster without glitches.
Tip #2
Download any of the software necessary and experiment with it a bit to make sure you know how to use it and that it is working properly. Read your professor's instructions thoroughly. It might seem unfamiliar and scary, but just take a deep breath and do your best!
Tip #3
Watch that you don’t accidentally change your answer while scrolling down to the next question
Tip #4
If you’re having crazy technical difficulties, don’t stress too much, you probably aren’t the only one and your prof will likely make accommodations.
2. Prepare like it’s a Normal Exam
Tip #1
Treat it like a normal exam because it is still the same level of difficulty. Make sure to clarify all your questions prior to writing the exam
Tip #2
Be as prepared as you would for a normal exam
Tip #3
Be sure to study beforehand, the exam will not be easier just because it is online.
3. Prepare the house
Tip #1
Find a quiet space and show the camera everything you are using. I.e. if you’re allowed your notes, show it to the webcam and put it where it will be for the remainder of the time. This makes me feel like I have proved I am not cheating even though I am looking away.
Tip #2
I would definitely recommend creating a workstation and not giving the exam on your bed as it helped me remain focused and less distracted.
Tip #3
Let the people in your home know you will be busy with it for some time so they don't interrupt
Tip #4
1) be sure your area is free of distractions (noise, phone, people)
2) ensure your family knows you have a test so that they don't bother you
3) set a time if the platform you are using does not provide one (it's a good reminder of the limited time you have)
4. Watch the Clock
Tip #1
It can be harder due to certain time restrictions, so don’t think just because it’s online it’s going to be easy. You still have to study to do well, plus studying now will help you for your future.
Tip #2
Keep track of your time and look over every answer at least twice before submitting it. Even though it may be an open book exam you will still want to study and know your stuff.
Tip #3
Make sure you prepare even if it is open book because having a time limit and looking through your notes takes up time.
Be ready to TIME MANAGE. You will be short on time in the end if it’s an open book exam because you’ll spend time looking through the textbook and lecture slides.
5. For Open Book Exams
Tip #1
1) Compile all notes (class, discussion groups and readings) into one document
2) use the ctrl+F function to look through notes for the concept relating to the question
3) if your notes are handwritten take time to number your pages and highlight all key terms and concepts. Then compile a list online (either by chapter or lecture) of the highlight key terms separated by page numbers so that the concepts can be easily found
Tip #2
Even though it seems like you can just look stuff up (many online exams are open book), I would suggest studying ahead anyway because even though it's open book, the answers may not be available online, like mine weren't.
It’s definitely quite the adjustment moving to online learning but we’re here to help! As of now, you can sign up for our new service, ‘Study Buddy,’ which is FREE until the end of the semester. This will give you access to over 20,000 video lessons, practice questions, and example problems.
You’ll also be able to ask homework questions to our expert-level profs. If you want a more course-tailored experience, all our final exam prep is 50% off and you can also sign up for a free 15-minute lesson with our online tutors. Stay safe out there and we wish you the best of luck!
Looking to study effectively? This video will help you take great notes online using Google Docs!
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