1. Technical Readiness & Environment Control
Technical malfunctions are the number one threat to online exam success. Preparation must eliminate these risks.
- Read the Rules: Before anything else, understand the test guidelines completely. Know the exam format (essay, multiple-choice, calculations), the time limit, and the proctoring requirements (webcam, microphone, screen-sharing). Failure to follow proctoring rules is often an automatic flag.
- Secure Your Setup: At least 24 hours prior, run a system check for any required software (like a LockDown Browser) and confirm your webcam and microphone work. Use a wired internet connection if possible, and reboot your computer 30 minutes before the exam starts to clear memory.
- Eliminate Distractions: Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a simple background. Clear your workspace of all unauthorized materials. Silence your phone and all desktop notifications, and inform everyone in your household that you cannot be interrupted.
2. Effective Study and Resource Organization
Even for open-book tests, you must know the material to succeed. The time constraint prevents looking up every answer.
- Strategic Organization: If allowed to use notes, spend your study time creating a quick-reference guide (or “cheat sheet”) with clear headings, formulas, and key concepts. This allows you to find information efficiently without wasting time scrolling through pages of notes.
- Focus on Application: Online exams often feature questions designed to test your critical thinking and analysis, not just rote memorization. Practice applying concepts to scenarios, as searching for factual recall will be faster than complex problem-solving.
- Practice Under Pressure: Take practice tests using the exact time limit and resources allowed in the real exam. This builds muscle memory for pacing and ensures your organization system works under pressure.
3. Exam Day Pacing and Contingency Plan
A disciplined approach during the exam prevents time waste and ensures a smooth submission.
- Create a Pacing Schedule: When the exam begins, quickly scan the total number of questions and allocate time per section based on the point values. Stick to your pace; if you get stuck, make a note, skip the question, and move on. Return to skipped items only after attempting everything else.
- Save Your Work: If the exam includes short-answer or essay questions, type your answers in a separate word document first, then copy and paste them into the exam platform. This acts as a vital backup if the system crashes.
- Submit Carefully: Use the final minutes to review all answers and ensure all required fields are complete. Wait for the submission confirmation page before closing your browser. If a technical issue prevents submission, immediately take a screenshot of the problem and contact your instructor.