Preparation For Exams: What A Fresher Should Know

 By Ifeoluwa Folasayo Deborah 

Unlike secondary school, many freshers are often unprepared for their first university examinations. Most students enter the university system without fully understanding that it is significantly different from what they were used to, and that it requires a higher level of independence, discipline, and focus. For some, the excitement of newfound freedom and the idea of being a “university big boy or girl” can become a distraction from academic responsibilities.

In the university, students are no longer spoon fed or closely monitored as they were in secondary school. Learning becomes largely dependent on self motivation, commitment, and self discipline. Without these qualities, even maintaining an average academic performance can become difficult.

The first semester examination is particularly important because it contributes to a student’s cumulative grade point average, commonly known as CGPA. Sadly, many students later regret not taking their first year seriously. Some struggle for several semesters trying to recover academically, while others experience a significant drop in confidence as a result of poor performance early on.

This article highlights key points to help LASU freshers prepare effectively for their first semester examinations and avoid common academic mistakes.

Ask for help and do not struggle in silence

Students should never feel too proud or too shy to ask for help. Reaching out to coursemates who have a better understanding of certain courses can make a significant difference. Asking for explanations, notes, course outlines, and past questions is part of effective learning. It is also helpful to speak with students in higher levels within the department, as they already understand lecturers’ teaching styles and examination patterns.

Keeping quiet about confusion or lack of understanding often pushes students closer to failure. Seeking help early is a sign of seriousness, not weakness.

Understand how you learn and assimilate

Not everyone assimilates information in the same way. It is important for students to understand their reading habits and assimilation capacity. Some people read better at night, while others function best during the day. Choosing what works personally has nothing to do with intelligence.

Students who cannot read for long hours can study in shorter sessions and remain consistent. Some students are comfortable reading under pressure, but copying that pattern without understanding personal strengths can lead to failure. Study groups may work for some and not for others. Students are advised to avoid comparing themselves with others and instead focus on what helps them understand and retain information.

Learn how to handle CBT examinations

One of the major challenges with CBT examinations is time management. Many students complain that time runs too fast, leaving them unable to complete their questions. A useful approach is to answer questions that are immediately understood first and skip difficult ones temporarily.

Spending too much time staring at one confusing question often leads to panic and wasted time. Students should remain conscious of the time left and the number of questions remaining, returning to more difficult questions when there is enough time to think calmly.

Make good use of the library

Some students complain that lecturers only provide course outlines or fail to attend classes regularly, and then use this as an excuse for poor performance. While such situations are not ideal, university education does not involve spoon feeding.

The library remains an important academic resource. There are several textbooks that align with course outlines, and students are encouraged to make use of them consistently. A lecturer’s absence is not a valid excuse for failure, especially when academic materials are available.

Read Smart and read hard

Laziness often hides behind the excuse of having enough time. University education requires studying smart, not just studying hard. Reading for long hours does not always translate to understanding.

Students should focus on course outlines and lecture notes, and ensure that materials obtained from past students align with what their lecturers are teaching. Reading the wrong material can be one of the most painful academic mistakes, as it involves effort without results.

Hold on to faith

University life comes with challenges that can sometimes feel overwhelming. For many students, faith and prayer provide strength and emotional stability during difficult moments. Regardless of religious background, students are encouraged not to neglect their spiritual well being, as it can serve as a source of encouragement and resilience throughout campus life.

Do not panic during examinations

Remaining calm while answering examination questions can be difficult, especially during CBT exams where time moves quickly. Panic often causes confusion and makes familiar questions appear strange.

Students are advised to take deep breaths, stay confident in their preparation, and approach each question with a clear mind. Trusting one’s effort and preparation can make a noticeable difference.

Give yourself breaks

While studying is important, rest is equally necessary. When reading becomes overwhelming and concentration drops, it is often a sign that a break is needed. Eating, resting briefly, and returning refreshed can improve productivity.

Students should aim to be hardworking without being extreme. Maintaining balance helps prevent burnout and improves overall performance.

Bonus Tip

Some departments use what is commonly referred to as the German type question format, which requires students to supply answers without multiple choice options. In such examinations, spelling is very important, as incorrect spellings may lead to loss of marks. Students are advised to confirm from lecturers or examiners whether answers should be written in uppercase or lowercase during CBT examinations.

As students gradually understand how the university system works, academic life becomes easier. With calmness, wisdom, smart study habits, consistency, and faith, freshers can successfully navigate their first semester examinations.

Good luck.