Last Minute Revision Tips for Competitive Exams

Last Updated on March 9, 2018 by Bharat Saini

Appearing for a competitive exam is, without doubt, quite a daunting task for even the most hardworking students. The day before the exam is extremely stressful for the majority of aspirants as there is so much to revise. This can easily lead to confusion and anxiety that may have a negative effect on your hard work and intensive preparations.  But you can’t afford to let this anxiety get the better of you. You need to be calm and composed while keeping the fact in mind that competitive exams are mostly about how well you manage your time.

UPSC, NDA, Bank PO and Assistants, SSC CGL/ HSL, Insurance sector – UIIC, NIA, etc., all these are competitive exams that attract a large number of aspirants. A well-planned preparation strategy thus needs to be acquired which requires at least a yearlong serious studies and dedicated efforts. Apart from this, you need a smart revision and cool head just before the exams. So here are some top tips to make the most of every minute before you enter the exam hall:

1. Begin early – the day before the exam, get up early. Freshen up, get something healthy to eat and start with your first revision session. With minimum distractions in the morning, you will find it easier to revise and it will set the pace for the rest of the day.
2. Avoid distractions – more the concentration, better the results. Stay away from the TV, smartphones, and anything that disturbs you. Ask family and friends not to bother you during the day.
3. Prioritize your weak topics – pick up the topics you are not very confident about and do them first. This will help you gain confidence and also lower down your stress.
4. Make a cheat-sheet – this is not something you need for cheating! A cheat-sheet is basically a concise set of notes used for quick reference while you are going through your final revision. You can write any formulae, abbreviations, mnemonics, diagrams, or just about anything you tend to forget.
5. Don’t read the books – books contain comprehensive information while revision requires stuff that is precise and to-the-point. Especially so when you are revising General Knowledge and Current Affairs, just pick up the notes and brush-up on your points. You can also take help of magazines for competitive exams.
6. Don’t attempt too many sample papers or mock papers – this can lead to a lot of confusion and you may end up losing your confidence. If you have been solving them throughout your studies, you will surely be able to solve any such question that comes in the exam.

Just try to get a positive attitude and keep yourself motivated. Stress can lead to mistakes so relax, take deep breaths and believe in yourself. At the end of the day, it is just an exam!