Exam time presents some unique challenges for the non-traditional law student. Here are some tips to help you cope and prepare.

• Fine-tune your class outlines. Generally, your professors will key you in to the really important exam areas. Prepare an attack outline and concentrate on these areas.
• Tell family and friends you are preparing for exams. If people know you are trying to ready yourself for the big day they will be more apt to respect your time constraints.
• Take a day or two off work. If at all possible you should take the day before exams off of work. Take this time to relax and do something you enjoy. This will relieve some of the stress and tension that invariably goes along with exam week.
• Sleep well. A good night’s sleep is essential the night before an exam to allow your mind and body quality recuperation.
• Eat well (especially breakfast). It is a well-known fact that greasy, fatty foods make your mind and body sluggish. Eat a good breakfast the day of your exams and drink some orange juice. One of my contract professors said that a glass of OJ before an exam is good for 7 points. Whether or not this is true . . . I now drink a glass of OJ before an exam
• Don’t listen to last-minute advice from fellow students. Stick with what you know and have learned. Use your judgment and knowledge.
• Use the “facilities” a few minutes before the exam. This may sound trivial, but you might be surprised at just how many students find they “have to go” when the nerves kick in.
• Take ear plugs if allowed. Exam rooms are pretty quiet, and every sound can be distracting. Gum chewing, keyboards, clearing throats, etc . . . can be annoying when you are really trying to concentrate.
• Show up for the exam early. The last thing you want is to be rushed and worried about making it on time.
• Stretch and exercise. Just before you go into the room find a place to yourself and stretch your arms and legs. Do a few jumping jacks or jog in place for a couple of minutes. This will get your blood flowing and release some tension.
• Be confident. You have studied this stuff. Don’t let yourself get psyched out at the last minute.

These are just a few tips that have helped me through exam week. Try them. They really work. Hang in there and do well!