How to study for maths exam in 1 day

The relevance of this study guide originates from the unpredictability of life events that may disrupt the ideally planned study schedules, consequently leaving only a single day for examination preparation. In such scenarios, understanding the most effective and efficient methods for tackling your study material in a time-constrained setting becomes essential.

Review the Syllabus

The initial step is to reevaluate the course outline or syllabus, a vital document that outlines the specific topics to prioritize and provides an overview of the course. Extra emphasis should be given to the sections that hold more weightage, as these areas deserve the majority of your limited study time.

Prioritize Topics

When preparing for an examination, all topics are not equally important. Some subjects are inherently more complex, hold more weight, or might be the areas where your understanding is lacking. Allocating more time to these areas ensures optimal utilization of limited study time.

Use High-Quality Study Materials

Depend on condensed study guides, online tutorials, educational videos, and other summary materials for their direct explanations and time-efficiency. However, the reliability of these materials and their alignment with your course content should be verified.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Mathematics is a discipline that greatly benefits from active learning through constant practice. Upon achieving a strong grasp of the concepts, initiate working on practice problems. Use past examination papers, online problem sets, and questions from your textbooks. Solving these problems reinforces the logical processes that form the basis of mathematical reasoning.

Memorize how questions under each prioritized topic is solved

Mathemtaics is arguably one of the cheapest subjects in the world? Why? Because you can actually score a 100% in a maths exam. That is not so in other subjects. Take, for example, the English language, no amount of dexterity or skill in the English language will make you score a 100% in an English composition - a situation that is foreign to Maths.

In mathematics, the key to solving questions is knowing what to do as far as any maths question is concerned. So, I will suggest, you take the time to memorize maths formulas, methodologies (how different maths problems are solved). Although, it is often said that, maths is not a reading subject, it actually is (to some extent).

Maths, as a subject, is primarily concerned with solving mathematical problems and studying the approaches or methods used to sove those problems. The first part require a lot of practice because the approaches/methodologies need to be tested to ensure they work; the second part cover the "reading" of the various methods/approaches used to solve the mathematical problems.

A simultaneous equation problem cannot be solved with a surds or indices solution. You will need a simultaneous equation solution, such as substitution or elimination. The more mathematical methods/approaches you can master by reading and practicing, the more problems you will be able to solve, and the better off you will be, as far as maths is concerned.

Don't Forget to Check Your Answers

Verification of your answers serves a dual purpose. Primarily, it confirms the correctness of your solutions and the procedures used. Additionally, it reinforces the concepts applied, further solidifying your understanding. If you stumble upon problems you can't solve, revisit the corresponding concepts.

Take Regular Breaks

Despite appearing counterproductive under time constraints, regular breaks have been proven to enhance productivity and focus. Implementing the Pomodoro Technique, which involves a 25-minute study period followed by a 5-minute break, can help sustain energy levels and keep your mind alert.

Maintain a Positive Attitude

A positive mindset is instrumental in effective learning, particularly under pressure. Remind yourself of your existing knowledge as a means of boosting confidence. Avoid dwelling on what you can't comprehend - as every minute counts, it's more effective to proceed and return later if time permits.

Final Thoughts

Although this guide offers a strategy for preparing for a mathematics examination in a single day, it's crucial to remember that this approach is far from ideal. Regular and consistent study and practice throughout the course is the most effective means of comprehending mathematical concepts. Nevertheless, when unforeseen circumstances lead to last-minute studying, these techniques can help optimize your study time and equip you for the examination as best as possible. Best of luck!