Preparing for your insurance exam can feel overwhelming. For some people taking tests causes stress no matter what and for other people it may have just been many years since the last time they studied for something. Whatever, the case is, let's review some basic study tips that will help you feel more ready when your exam day arrives.
Tip 1: Eliminate Distractions
Distractions are one of the main obstacles we face in the study process. It's easy to become distracted by social media, online news surfing, your kids, your pets, or even text messages coming in from friends to plan your next social event. Whatever the distraction is, it's easy for many of us to welcome them instead of focusing on the task at hand. Below are some ways to help you avoid common distractions:
- Cell Phone: turn your phone to vibrate or even set a "Do Not Disturb" rule that will silence any notifications other than emergency phone calls.
- Children: try studying after your kids are in bed or maybe while they are at school or some type of activity. If possible, you may want to schedule study time with your significant other or a family member to assist with the kids so you can focus.
- Internet Surfing: if using a computer is an important part of your studying make sure that you only have one window open in your browser. If you have alerts for news in your browser, mute those alerts so you aren't distracted while reviewing material.
- TV: while it may be nice to have background noise for some people, having the TV on is an easy distraction for our brains. It's best not to have the temptation of watching a show for a few minutes or longer when you feel unfocused.
Tip 2: Study Techniques
Once you address the potential distractions in your study environment, setting up a study plan is your next step. Setting up and sticking to a study plan will allow you to learn the material faster and help you feel more prepared for your exam. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Set a Schedule: set aside one to three hours each day or night that you can dedicate to studying. Being consistent will help you avoid cramming at the last minute.
- Develop a Study Outline: sticking to a study outline will help you know where you need to be in your learning process in order to stay on track to take your exam. An outline will give you benchmarks and help you keep track of what you have completed and what you need to finish.
- Review, Review, Review: reviewing your material periodically throughout your studying will help to reinforce the information. Taking review quizzes or briefly reviewing notes after each section will keep the information fresh in your mind and will help solidify what you're learning.
Tip 3: Positive Mental Feedback
Feeling stressed about your exam or the studying process can have a negative impact on how you feel about your progress and preparation. Do your best to remain positive. Take a minute each day during studying to be mindful of your thoughts and list the things you are doing well and you are happy with. A positive attitude will help you feel more focused and more than likely will help you retain the information better.
You are taking the initial step to further your education and start a great career, acknowledge yourself for that!