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If you have an open book test coming up, rest-assured that this guide will tell you everything you need to know about preparing for and taking your open-note exam—plus expert test-taking tips from academic tutor Jake Adams! Start with the questions you can answer easily, without your notes.
Open book assessments, such as Controlled Condition Exams or Take-Home Papers allow you to consult reference materials while you’re taking the assessment. You will be completing this using your computer or tablet, most likely away from UCL – in your own space at home or your university accommodation.
Steps to prepare for an open-book exam. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare for your open-book exam. Follow these steps to prepare efficiently and effectively. Step 1: Understanding expectations. Make sure you understand your instructor’s expectations for the exam and that you clearly understand the exam framework:
In preparation for your open book test, identify key concepts and terms which will more than likely appear on the test. Use your class lecture notes to pinpoint what the instructor is likely to include on the exam.
While traditional exams rely heavily on memory, open-book exams emphasize comprehension, application, and analytical skills. Rely on memorization. Emphasize recall of key facts and figures. Often involve repetitive review. Exam preparation focuses on understanding. Prioritize organizing materials for quick reference.
During the exam period, you may be asked to take a home-based online open book exam. Open book exams allow you to consult external sources such as textbooks and your own notes during the exam time. Here are some tips from former Academic Skills Course Leader Tom Reid to help you prepare for this form of assessment.
How should I prepare? Find out from your instructor exactly what you are allowed – and not allowed – to bring in to the exam, and make sure you follow the rules. Find out if you need to cite sources in your answers. Learn your material as thoroughly as you would for any other exam. Do not count on having time to look up all your answers.
Open-book exams require you to: apply the information in your sources to the questions. You need to study for open-book exams just as you would for any exam. If you know your subject, you'll have a knowledge base to draw on. You will also understand how and why topics are linked.
Preparation for an open book exam involves more than just organising your materials. Here are key strategies to ensure success: Understand the Format: Familiarize yourself with the exam structure, types of questions, and time limits.
If you have an upcoming open-book test, take the following steps to prepare. Read the chapters ahead of time. Don't expect to find quick answers during the test. Know where to find everything. Observe headings and sub-headings and make your own outline. This reinforces the structure of the text in your mind.