Preparation for the Board Exams

Preparation for the Board Exams 

Last few weeks can be a stressful time for all students–I know it used to be for me. Knowing how to properly prepare is the key to avoiding stress and acing not only in Forensic Medicine but in every single paper.

1. Plan your study, give enough time:- Don't leave it until the last minute. While some students do seem to thrive on last-minute 'cramming', it's widely accepted that  this is not the best way to approach an exam. Set out a timetable for your study.

2. Condense your study material, use flow charts and diagrams:- Visual aids can be really helpful when revising. Closer to the exam, condense your revision notes, getting your ideas down in brief format can then help you to quickly recall everything you need to know during the exam.

3. Practice on old exams-question papers (at least of past 10 years):- One of the most effective ways to prepare for exams is to practice taking past versions. This helps you get used to the format of the questions, know the instructions that might be given to you in question paper and---if you time yourself---can also be good practice for making sure you spend the right amount of time on each question.  

Pictures might be asked in theory as well as viva, try to get exposed to as many pictures as you can. You can get few here at this link---- Forensic-Medicine Pictures  OR go to this-------- http://www.pinterest.com/abhishekkarn/forensic-medicine/

4. Discuss with friends :- Get together with friends for a study session or just start discussion on a topic anywhere. You may have questions that they have the answers to and vice versa. As long as you make sure you stay focused on the topic for an agreed amount of time, this can be one of the most effective ways to challenge yourself.

5. Take regular breaks while studying:- While you may think it's best to study for as many hours as possible, this can actually be counterproductive. Likewise studies have shown that for long-term retention of knowledge, taking regular breaks really helps. Try not to feel guilty about being out enjoying the sunshine for a while instead of hunched over your textbooks 

6. Snack on 'brain food':- Keep away from junk food! what you eat can really have an impact on energy levels and focus. Keep your body and brain well-fuelled by choosing nutritious foods that have been proven to aid concentration and memory, such as fish, nuts (almonds), seeds, glucose, chocolates, Vit. B-complex supplements------ eat a good meal before the exams, based on foods that will provide a slow release of energy throughout. 

 7. Have Coffee:- Caffeine is a known CNS stimulant, so to bear off mental and physical fatigue and to improve focus have black-coffee in between studies.

8. Drink plenty of water:- Remember that being well hydrated is essential for your brain to work at its best. Make sure you keep drinking plenty of water throughout your revision, and also on the exam day.

!!!!!!! Good luck !!!!!!!!