Studying for a Test

Phase 1 of studying for a test, often called the “no problem” phase, runs from the day the test is announced to approximately forty-eight hours before the dreaded exam is passed out. During phase 1, the student is carefree, smiling, and kind to helpless animals and small children. When asked by classmates if he or she has studied for the test yet, the reply would be an assured “No Problem.” During phase 1, no actual studying takes place. Phase 2 is entered two days before the test. For example, if the test is scheduled for 9 A.M. Friday, phase 2 begins at 9 A.M. Wednesday. During phase 2, again, no actual studying takes place. Phase 3, the final phase, is entered 12 hours before “zero hour.” This is the cram phase, characterized by sweaty palms, nervous twitches, and confused mental patterns. For a test at nine o’clock on Friday morning, a student begins exhibiting these symptoms at approximately nine o’clock on Thursday night. Phase 3 is also termed the “shock” phase, since the student is shocked to discover the imminence of the exam and the amount of material to be studied. During this phase, the student will probably be unable to sleep and will mumble meaningless phrases like “a2 + b2.” This phase will not end until the exam is over. If the cram session has worked, the student will fall gratefully asleep that night. On waking up, he or she will be ready to go through the whole cycle again with the next test.

English Skills

John Langan.