Dr. Mary’s Test Taking Tips for Science Majors

Final exams are right around the corner, and for science students, that means it is time to shift into high gear. In this blog, we are sharing practical tips to help you feel more confident, stay focused, and perform your best when it counts. 

As an adjunct professor at NSU Undergrad, Dr. Mary taught Anatomy & Physiology I and II. She never taught her classes so that students would pass only her tests, but instead asked test questions in a way that would prepare her students for medical tests such as the MCAT, DATs, and other objective entrance exams.

While these strategies are especially useful for tackling science exams, they can be helpful for any student looking to improve study habits, manage stress, and approach finals with a smarter game plan. 

Let’s dive in. 

Test Taking Tips for Before, During, and After the Exam

Don’t procrastinate—prepare with purpose

Start early. Make flashcards. Create acronyms. Draw charts. Join a study group. And most importantly: write it out. Writing by hand boosts memory. Grab a notebook or dry erase board and go over processes and flow charts until they’re second nature. Studying is active—so get your hands moving and your brain will follow.

Memorize it anyway

Notice when something just isn’t sticking, no matter how many times you review it. Think of acronyms, formulas, lists, or diagrams—anything you can quickly dump onto a blank sheet the second the test begins. Many instructors give you a blank sheet or allow you to write on the back of the test. Use it! 

Know what’s common and memorize the exception

Multiple choice questions love the odd one out. Example: “All of the following muscles externally rotate the shoulder EXCEPT...”  So, study the group but highlight the rule-breaker. That’s the one they will ask about.

Lip-read the question

Our eyes can easily skip important words like NOT or EXCEPT, changing the entire meaning of a question. Lip reading helps your brain catch every word. 

Answer the question before you see the options

For multiple choice, try to come up with your own answer first. The options are often designed to distract you, and having your own answer in mind will help you stay focused on what you know to make it easier to spot the right choice.

Never be the first one done

Mark the questions you are unsure about with a star, and use your remaining time to review those questions carefully. Do not second-guess yourself, but make sure you have read through your starred questions.

In a multiple choice, figure out why the other answers are incorrect

Think of multiple choice questions like a "true or false" question—understand what makes each wrong option wrong. Doing this will reinforce your understanding and help you eliminate the distractions.

Don’t Get Stuck 

Notice the temptation to panic when you hit a question you don’t know. Even after hours of studying, it is completely normal to come across a question that stumps you. That doesn't mean you’re unprepared—it just means you are human.

If a question is taking more than a minute, flag it, take a breath, and move on. Spending too much time on one question can throw off your rhythm and steal time from the ones you do know.

Notice phrases like “All”, “Always” and “Never”

Generally speaking, “All”, “Always” and “Never” are almost always never the answer. There is usually an “exception” to the rule. For example: ALL arteries do not carry oxygenated blood away from the heart and ALL veins do not carry deoxygenated blood back to the heart. I challenge you to challenge this tip! 

Relax with hypnotherapy, massage, chiropractic adjustments, and acupuncture

Take a break to relax your body—whether through hypnotherapy, a massage, chiropractic adjustment, or acupuncture. Dr. Mary offers personalized services to help you feel your best. Reach out today to schedule a session and get ready to tackle your exams with a clear mind and calm body!

Affirmations the night before and after the exam

After all the studying is done and your notes are neatly tucked away, the night before an exam can bring a wave of nerves and self-doubt. That’s completely normal—but it’s also the perfect time to shift your mindset from stress to self-trust. Speaking positive affirmations to yourself can help calm your thoughts, reinforce your confidence, and remind you of how much you’ve already accomplished. 

Below are a few affirmations designed to help you feel grounded, focused, and ready to walk into your exam with a clear mind and steady heart:

I trust my knowledge, my instincts, and my ability to perform well.

I am capable, calm, and ready to succeed.

I honor the effort I’ve put in and believe in my growth.

I am more than this exam, and this moment does not define my worth.

My mind is clear, my body is calm, and I am ready.

I let go of fear and make space for confidence.

I trust the process and give myself permission to rest tonight.

Relieve Test Taking Stress with Dr. Mary

You are well on your way to tackling your exam with confidence and focus! By preparing strategically, trusting in your knowledge, and taking time to relax, you can set yourself up for success. 

If you are feeling stressed or need extra support, Dr. Mary’s personalized services, like hypnotherapy massage, chiropractic adjustments, and acupuncture, can help clear your mind and boost your performance. 

Reach out to Dr. Mary and get the extra edge you need to perform your best! Whether you would like individual help or have a study group for a workshop, Dr. Mary would love to be a part of your success.