After a long, fun summer of adventures and sleeping in, students have to transition back into school mode. That means, completing assignments, writing papers, and studying for exams are now on the minds of all college students. In the blink of an eye, the first exam is here and panic sets in. Until you see the exam and see the questions, you will never know if you are fully prepared. Here are some ways to make getting through that first exam a lot easier.

1. Studying

How you study will definitely determine how you will do on the exam. For your first exam, you have to focus on the most important information. The biggest mistake that college students make is overwhelming themselves while studying. Most professors will discuss some of the important information that will be on an exam, or will highlight those components in a lecture. Also, pick up a study habit that works for you. Whether it is flashcards, reviewing he content, or rewriting your notes, use that method to study.

2. Pay Attention In Class

The only way you will have an idea of what is on the exam, is if you pay attention in class. Taking good notes is crucial for studying. The less notes you have, the less information you are going to know for the exam. Make sure you write down the key points of a lecture, and descriptions that you can refer to later. Your notes are your guide. If you mess up your notes, it will just make taking your first exam difficult.

3. Show Up To Class

If you do not show up to class, you are going to miss a lot. Most people try to get notes off of a friend, but everyone takes notes differently. You have to be in class and listen to the lecture, in order to fully understand what is being taught. While studying your notes is important, taking an exam is easier if you understand the information that is being taught to you. You are able to remember the content and narrow down your choices on an exam if you understand the content.

4. Do Not Overwhelm Yourself

The last thing you want to be is overwhelmed during an exam. To avoid this, try studying in advance. Sometimes it works to study the night before, but if you are completely lost in your class, you should go over your notes ahead of time. Having to cram every piece of information into your brain before an exam is stressful. Most likely, you will forget half the information you tried to store in your memory. Also, do not stress over the first exam too much. It is meant to give you an idea of how your professor structures the exams, and it helps you prepare better.

5. Keep Your Grades Up

The first exam is not always easy, and you are not expected to pass the first time around. If you do pretty lousy on the first exam, make sure you continue to do well in the course by doing your homework and turning in assignments. This will boost your grade, and provide some cushion for your fall. Also, participate as much as you can. In some cases, professors will reward bonus points or keep you in consideration when doing final grades, if you are an active participant in the class.