Write detailed notes during class about the material covered for the final exam -- notes are crucial for studying. Stay after class or visit the teacher during the teacher's office hours to get help if you are confused about something being taught. Avoid having to learn the material as you study -- study time is for review, not learning.
Begin studying at least two weeks before the final exam. Make a study schedule that allots time for work, if necessary, sleep and studying sessions. Coordinate meetings with a study group or study partner -- if this type of studying is helpful to you. Arrange time to study for other classes or final exams as needed.
Use an outline provided for the material, which is typically part of a syllabus, as a guide to the readings and assignments to review everything that was covered. Obtain a final exam study guide, if available, from your teacher. This should include what material will be covered on the exam as well as the question format. Read all of this information before you begin studying to give yourself a mental framework of what to expect on the final exam.
Review your class notes. Rewrite your notes on loose-leaf paper if they are sloppy or you need to expand on some of the topics. Use different colors of pens for writing each section; the color-coded information will help you retain the details. Highlight key terms, essential dates and important people. Use different colors of highlighters for each type of information.
Review your assignments, such as lab work or essays. Read over the mistakes you made and correct them, if you haven't already. Ask your teacher to clarify any major mistakes you made on the assignments.
Read your outline or notes to identify words, phrases, charts, lists or any other group of information that you need to know for the exam. Write a main word or describing term on one side of a 3-by-5-inch index card -- you will likely need at least 100 cards. Add information related to the word on the back of the card. Use lists, bullets, numbering or a chart when adding information. To save time, write in shorthand or use familiar and easily recognized abbreviations.
Stack the index cards so the keyword is facing up. Pick up an index card and say the keyword aloud and then read aloud the information on the back of the card. Make two stacks of index cards as you go through them -- one with cards you have recalled exactly and another for cards you need to continue to work with. Wrap a rubber band around the stacks as you take breaks, or for transport.
Study during any breaks you have, such as meal times or while waiting between classes. Reading over all of your notes and note cards. The more exposure you have to the material in different settings or mind-sets will maximize your ability to recall it during your final exam.