How to Prepare for Your First UK University Exam

Your first exam at a UK university can feel very different from school exams. The question formats, marking system, and even the atmosphere in the exam hall might surprise you. However, with the right preparation plan, you can replace anxiety with confidence. Let’s go step by step.

Step 1: Understand What’s Expected

Before you even start revising, you need a clear picture of what your exam will look like.

Check the Module Handbook: This document tells you:
- The type of exam (essay-based, multiple-choice, problem-solving, or open-book/take-home).
- How much the exam counts towards your final grade (sometimes 40–70%).
- The marking criteria, so you know what examiners value most.
Look at Past Papers: These are like gold dust. For example, if past questions repeatedly ask you to “evaluate” rather than “describe,” you’ll know the exam wants critical thinking, not just facts. Try at least one paper under timed conditions.
Ask Your Tutors: Don’t be shy. Attend revision classes, email lecturers, or ask questions after seminars. Even asking, “What are the most common mistakes students make in this exam?” can give you a huge advantage.

By clarifying the format, you won’t waste time revising in the wrong way.

Step 2: Build a Smart Revision Plan

Once you know the exam format, it’s time to create a revision timetable.

Start Early: Aim to begin at least 4–6 weeks before your first exam. That way, you can spread out the workload.
Prioritise Topics: For example, if a topic is worth 40% of the paper, give it more revision hours than a topic worth 10%.
Be Specific: Instead of writing “Revise Biology,” break it into chunks like “Revise photosynthesis process + past paper Qs.”
Schedule Breaks: Short breaks prevent burnout. Try the Pomodoro Technique: 25 minutes work + 5 minutes rest. After four rounds, take a longer break (20–30 mins).

Example Daily Plan (3 hours of study):

9:00–9:25 → Revise key terms with flashcards
9:25–9:30 → Short break
9:30–9:55 → Practice a past exam question
9:55–10:00 → Short break
10:00–10:25 → Make a mind map of today’s topic
10:25–10:30 → Short break
10:30–11:00 → Review yesterday’s material

By being clear and realistic, you’ll make steady progress instead of last-minute cramming.

Step 3: Revise Effectively

Not all revision methods are equal. Here are proven techniques:

Active Recall: Instead of reading notes passively, test yourself. For example, cover your notes and try to explain the process of photosynthesis out loud.
Spaced Repetition: Review key material every few days. Apps like Anki or Quizlet can automate this by reminding you of flashcards at the right time.
Mind Maps & Diagrams: For essay exams, draw maps linking causes, effects, and examples. This will help you structure essays faster.
Practice Writing Answers: Especially for essay-based exams. For example, time yourself writing a 20-mark question. This builds speed and confidence.
Teach Someone Else: If you can explain a concept clearly to a friend, it means you truly understand it.

These strategies make information stick better than just reading or highlighting notes.

Step 4: Create the Right Study Space

Your environment can either help you focus or distract you.

Find a Quiet Place: The library, a study room, or even a quiet café. Avoid places with constant interruptions.
Keep It Organised: A clutter-free desk helps create a clutter-free mind. Have only what you need (notes, pens, water).
Remove Distractions: Put your phone on silent, log out of social media, or use apps like Forest or Freedom to block distractions.
Experiment with Background: Some people focus better in silence, while others prefer soft background music or white noise.

By controlling your study space, you’ll waste less time and improve concentration.

Step 5: Look After Your Health

Exams aren’t just about studying—they also test your stamina.

Eat Smart: Choose foods that fuel your brain—nuts, fish, eggs, fruit, and vegetables. Avoid relying on energy drinks or sugary snacks, which cause energy crashes.
Get Enough Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours each night. Sleep is when your brain turns short-term memory into long-term knowledge.
Exercise Regularly: Even a 20-minute walk clears your mind, lowers stress, and boosts focus.
Talk About Stress: Don’t bottle it up. If you feel anxious, speak with friends, family, or your university’s wellbeing services.

A healthy body supports a sharp mind.

Step 6: Exam Day Tips

Finally, the big day arrives. Here’s how to stay calm and focused:

Morning Prep: Do a light review of flashcards or summaries. Avoid trying to learn new topics at the last minute.
Eat a Balanced Breakfast: Porridge, whole-grain toast, or eggs will give you steady energy.
Arrive Early: Get to the exam hall at least 15–20 minutes beforehand. This helps you settle in and avoid panic.
Read Carefully: First, check instructions and the marks for each question. Don’t spend 30 minutes on a 10-mark question.
Plan Your Time: For a 2-hour exam with 4 questions, you should spend about 30 minutes per question.
Stay Calm: If you get stuck, move on to another question and return later.

Remember: exams don’t test perfection; they test preparation.

Final Thoughts

To sum up, preparing for your first UK university exam is all about balance. First, understand the exam structure. Next, create a clear revision plan and use smart study techniques. Alongside this, maintain your wellbeing and prepare calmly for exam day.

With these strategies, you’ll walk into the exam hall not only ready to write—but ready to succeed.