You cannot overstudy for a math test. You need to practice, practice, practice.

Research has shown that the most effective time period for study is 20 - 40 minutes then a 5 - 10 minute break. After 2 hours take at least a 20 minute break.

Step 1: Find out from your instructor what topics will be covered on your exam, how much time you will have to take the exam, and if possible, the number of questions and the point values of each question. (Many teachers hand out a review for the exam, I do). Find out if you can use notes, or a calculator on the exam.

Step 2: Review each topic that will be covered on the exam. Make a list of problems from odd numbered homework problems, chapter reviews or tests that include answers for each topic to be covered on the test. (Be sure to throw in some challenging questions also).

Step 3: Make two practice tests for yourself by choosing some of the problems in your topic review. One idea is to have a fellow student make up one exam, and you another, then switch. Make your practice tests as long as the real test.

Take one practice test under the same conditions as the real test. (If you can't use a calculator on the actual test, don't use one on the practice exam). Also, try to take your test at school, in a classroom setting, not at home sprawled on your bed listing to music. Be sure to time yourself. Check your answers. For the problems you answered correctly, you won't have to review too much. Concentrate on the problems you missed.

Step 4: For each problem you missed, select several problems from your topic list you made in step 2. Concentrate on working these problems one topic at a time. Work out as many problems as you can in order to feel fully confident (can you work the problem in your sleep?), you have mastered the material on that topic. Check your answers. If you are stuck on a topic, now is the time to:

• See your instructor during office hours
• Go to Math 99 for help
• Get help from the LAP tutors
• Get help from others in your study group
• Hire a private tutor

Your goal is to have complete confidence in your ability to work any problem that may appear on the test, in any order. Look at previous tests your instructor has given. Material may appear from previous tests. You should know how to work these problems in your sleep.

Step 5: List all the formulas you will need to memorize for the test. Make index cards for them and have a friend quiz you on them. When you get your test paper, write them down immediately on the test itself.

Step 6: Take the second practice test you (or your friend) made. Review any errors on this test.

Step 1: When you get the test, immediately write down all of the formulas you needed to memorize on the test itself. Skim the test, looking at all of the problems and noting which ones you are confident you can do correctly. (The easiest problems may not be the first ones). Work out these problems first. Save the difficult problems for later.

Don't spend an excessive amount of time on one problem, start the problem and write down everything you know about this problem. If you cannot finish it, mark it to come back to later. Watch your time.