Exams are a crucial part of the education process. They demonstrate your mastery of course concepts and assess your learning. Even with online learning, exams are often included in the curriculum for the same reasons – but taking them in this new format can be a little nerve-wracking.
Whether you have anxiety over the test itself, the study process, or technical issues that may distract you during the process, these tips can help you prepare, perform, and improve for next time.
Prep for Your Online Exam
Develop a Study Plan
Map the material: Take out your syllabus and break down the information into topics and subtopics. Use the course learning objectives to create questions to test your knowledge and see where your strengths and weaknesses lie.
Use practical study tools: There are plenty of study tools available, but they’re not all a good fit for you. Experiment with study guides, outlines of course modules, and flash cards to test your knowledge and see what works.
Schedule short, focused learning sessions: Studying in short bursts can be more effective than long cramming. Try 25–45-minute sessions with 5-minute breaks in between to keep your mind fresh. Try rotating topics if you feel frustrated, overwhelmed, or distracted, and return to the harder topics later.
Mix practice types: Balance active recall like quizzing yourself with spaced repetition. Both are proven test-taking strategies, but they offer different benefits for your short- and long-term retention.
Take Practice Assessments
Simulate the format: It’s best to mimic the actual test conditions as much as possible. For example, if your exam is multiple choice and timed, practice under these constraints to see how you perform under pressure.
Create your own test: If there are no practice tests for your exam, create your own from lecture slides and reading. You could try working with a peer or study group and creating practice tests for each other.
Review and improve: After each practice set, mark what you missed, why you missed it, and the correct answer or context. Create a log of missed questions to better prepare for test day.
Prep Your Space
Tech checkup: Before your test, update your browser, disable auto-updates, and close unused apps. Make sure your laptop is fully charged with a backup power source or charger ready.
Connectivity: If possible, use wired internet to avoid any connectivity problems. If Wi-Fi is the only option, sit as close as possible to your router and ask your family or roommates to avoid streaming during your test.
Environment: Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a comfortable chair and clean desk. Turn onthe “do not disturb” feature on your devices to silence notifications.
Materials: Some tests allow extra materials, such as a calculator, formula sheet, or notes. Confirm what’s allowed and make sure you have them ready. If your exam is proctored or uses a lockdown browser, test those tools in advance.
Follow the rules: Your school or online learning platform has an academic honesty policy. For example, if it’s an open-book assessment, use the materials you’re allowed – no more, no less.