Article by Dr. Richmond Acquah-Coleman, Lecturer, Department of Psychology

You can do this. Use this short plan to study smart, stay calm, and write well.
Study smart
1. Study in short focused blocks. Work 25–40 minutes. Rest 5–10 minutes.
2. Test yourself, do not only read. Close the book and recall key points. Use past questions.
3. Space your practice. Revisit topics daily in quick reviews.
4. Mix topics. For example, one theory, one method, one application.
5. Teach it to a friend or to yourself. If you can explain it simply, you know it.
6. Use active notes. Write definitions, models, and one example for each idea.
7. Create mini cheat sheets for revision only. Do not carry them into the hall.

What to focus on
• Learning outcomes in your course outline.
• Key theories and names.
• Definitions in your own words.
• Core studies and Ghanaian examples.
• Methods: sampling, design, ethics, analysis basics.
• Command verbs: define, explain, compare, evaluate, apply.

Past questions: a quick method
• Time yourself.
• Mark your answers with the scheme if you have one.
• Fix weak spots at once. Do a second attempt the next day.

Writing strong answers
• Start with a clear point, then explain, give evidence, and an example. (PEEL: Point, Explain, Evidence, Link.)
• Use headings and short paragraphs in long answers.
• Draw a simple diagram when it helps. Label it.
• Use Ghana or Africa examples when relevant.
• Keep your handwriting clear.

Manage your time in the hall
• Read all questions first. Circle easy wins.
• Plan your order: easy → moderate → tough.
• Allocate time by marks.
o Time per mark = total minutes ÷ total marks.
o Example: 120 minutes and 100 marks → 1.2 minutes per mark.
o Example: 90 minutes and 60 marks → 1.5 minutes per mark.
• Leave 5 minutes at the end to check names, numbers, and questions attempted.

If you feel stuck
• Pause. Breathe in for 4, hold 4, out 6. Repeat three times.
• Jot key words for the question. Start with any part you know.
• Move on if a question is not flowing. Return later.

Health basics that protect your grades
• Sleep 7–8 hours. Memory needs sleep.
• Eat simple food. Drink water. Limit caffeine after 4 pm.
• Stretch and walk between study blocks.
• Protect your mood. Pray, reflect, or talk with a friend if you feel tense.

Phone and distractions
• Put the phone out of reach while you study.
• Use one tab per task.
• If music helps, choose calm instrumentals only.

24-hour checklist
• Review key summaries and past questions you have already done.
• Pack items: ID, pens, pencil, eraser, calculator if allowed, water.
• Know the venue and time. Plan transport.
• Set two alarms. Sleep.

On the day
• Arrive early.
• Do a quick warm-up recall of key points.
• Read instructions twice.
• Start steady. Trust your practice.

After each paper
• Note what went well and what to improve.
• Reset. Eat, rest, and switch focus to the next paper.

We are proud of you. Study with intention, write with clarity, and care for your body and mind. If you need support, reach out to your course reps, tutors, or the department office. You will finish well.