We all know the golden rule: don’t study the night before a big test. But let’s be honest – it’s hard to completely shut off that urge to review, especially when it comes to the NPTE. Here’s a strategy that worked for me and might work for you too.
While it’s true that you shouldn’t cram the night or day before the NPTE, a little light review isn’t off-limits. Throughout the day before my NPTE, I didn’t delve into entire sections or heavy topics. Instead, I addressed easy-to-answer, purely memorization-based questions that popped into my mind. These were the types of questions that could be quickly resolved with a brief search on my phone or laptop.
Why this method?
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- Reduces Stress: By answering these small, lingering questions, I managed to alleviate some of the anxiety that naturally builds up before the big day. It wasn’t about making or breaking my score, but about feeling more confident and less stressed.
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- Keeps Your Mind Active: A little light review kept my mind engaged without overwhelming it. I would look up answers sporadically while walking, exercising, or relaxing. This way, my brain stayed in gear without feeling the pressure of intensive studying.
However, the key is balance. Here’s what you should do to maintain a healthy pre-exam day:
Engage in Relaxing Activities
Go for a Walk: Fresh air and a change of scenery can do wonders for your stress levels. Walking is also a great time to think through any last-minute questions and then quickly look them up if needed.
Exercise: As you should know, light exercise (aerobic exercise, specifically) can help reduce stress and improve your mood. Additionally, it’s also a great distraction that will help the time go by.
Spend Time with Friends: Socializing can be a great way to take your mind off the exam. Spend time with friends and family, and enjoy their company to help reduce pre-exam anxiety.
Cook or Clean: Engaging in household activities can be surprisingly therapeutic. Cooking a meal or tidying up your space can provide a sense of accomplishment and distract your mind.
Avoid Overstudying
While a little light review can help reduce stress, avoid diving into entire sections or trying to learn new material. The day before the exam is not the time for intense study sessions. Stick to simple, straightforward questions that can be answered quickly and won’t overwhelm you.
Stay Positive
Remind yourself of how far you’ve come and the hard work you’ve put in. Confidence is key, and a positive mindset can significantly impact your performance. Give yourself some positive affirmations.
In Summary: The day before the NPTE, it’s okay to do a little light review to ease your mind. Answer simple, memorization-based questions that come to mind, but don’t overdo it. Balance your day with relaxing activities like walking, exercising, socializing, and household chores to keep stress levels low. Remember, a positive and relaxed state of mind is just as crucial as the knowledge you’ve gained!