1. ASSESSMENT PREPARATION It is the responsibility of the student to understand the structure of their course and the assessment requirements. The degree consists of 360 Credits with 120 Credits at each level. All modules carry Credits. They may be Single – 15 Credits or Double – 30 Credits.

2. Your course consists of a combination of CORE and OPTION modules. All Core modules must be passed and the Credits accredited to your record, if an Award is to be achieved. Option modules must be passed or replaced, and the Credits accredited to your record. You cannot afford to assign greater significance to any one of your modules. Assessment forms will include: examinations, assignments, presentations and other activities.

3. Some Common Problems Answering question without reading it thoroughly and understanding the requirements. Giving an answer about how something should be done rather than why. Underline the important words. Students writing everything they know about a given subject. Waffling.

4. Notes written to the examiner. Poor handwriting, spelling or grammar. Ignoring the marks structure. Answering one question well and the others poorly through lack of preparation or poor use of time.

5. If you are taking a paper with four answers required, giving up to 25% each, consider the following. One question attempted – maximum achievable – 25%. 15% would be a reasonable outcome – Fail! Two questions attempted – maximum achievable – 50%. 30% would be a reasonable outcome – Fail! Three questions attempted – maximum achievable – 75%. 45-50% would be a reasonable outcome – Bare Pass! Complying with requirements will give best chance of passing and getting a good mark! Good Mark!

6. Be very strict with yourself. When the time is up, move on to the next question and come back if you have any time at the end. On each question, the first half of the marks are always the easiest to get.

7. PREPARATION Devise a revision timetable. Divide your time equally between subjects. Try to stick to two subjects per day. Take regular breaks. Eat and drink. Use the time of day when you work best. Take a break and relax before going to bed.

8. Do not cram all revision in to revision week – that time is intended for you to contact tutors if you need to. Resist the temptation to use drugs – legal or illegal – to improve your performance. Think positively – it really does help!

9. Some Suggested Techniques Note taking for theoretical subjects Highlight pens to define key issues. Make use of headings and sub-headings to define key issues. List information under the headings. Use mnemonics to aid recall. Use other memory techniques to help retain information.

10. Problem solving subjects Tackle problems over and over until you are confident with the methodology. Always show your workings – you may get marks even if you get the wrong answer.

11. Old exam papers Can be found on websites and in libraries – use to practice answers. Check with tutors for further information.

12. Independent Learning Groups Get together with a small group of like-minded students. Each prepare essay structure to different question and discuss but be careful to understand the implications of plagiarism. Use your strengths to help each other. Working with others may simply help with your self discipline.

13. On the Day! Check that you know where and when each exam takes place. Many go to the wrong place. Check that you can get there on time and allow extra time for delays. Make sure you have all the equipment you need. Take in a little light refreshment! Use toilet facilities before going into exam hall.

14. Do not try to revise in queue for exam hall. Leave belongings at side/front/back of hall. Make sure mobile phones are switched off. Make sure you have the right paper in front of you. Listen carefully to Head Invigilator’s instructions. Do not talk to any other students in the exam hall.

15. In the Exam Use time in proportion to the marks. e.g. 2hr exam Section A – answer 5 questions (10 marks each) Section B – answer 2 questions (25 marks each) You should spend approximately 12 minutes on each 10mark question. You should spend approximately 30 minutes on each 25mark question. Remember that the time allowed includes: reading and planning as well as writing.

16. Put number of question on answer booklet. Keep each question on it’s own page. Do not write out question – it wastes time. Be strict with yourself and move on when the allotted time is up.

17. STRESS Feelings of panic or loss of control. Disorganisation. Task avoidance. Negative thoughts. Deteriorating health Organise and prepare yourself so that you do not have to suffer from stress symptoms.