Picture it. You’ve spent months deep in bar prep, and exam day has finally arrived. You know the law and you’re equipped with the techniques for answering each type of question; but do you have a plan for staying focused if distractions arise?
Just like every other aspect of bar prep, developing and practicing strategies to minimize exam day distractions is key to bring your A-game when it counts most. Write out a list of challenges you have encountered during previous exams and study sessions — then, brainstorm a game plan for dealing with each situation.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for potential disruptions:
Noise: Whether you are testing in a huge hall with hundreds (or thousands) of people or a classroom of 30, noise is inevitable. Remember that annoying clicking sound during law school exams when all your classmates were furiously typing at once? That noise will be magnified — along with random coughs, sneezes, sighs, paper shuffling and moving chairs.
If you are sensitive to noise, don’t let these diversions catch you off guard. Check if your jurisdiction allows examinees to use foam earplugs. If so, make sure to have some on hand for the exam and wear them when taking practice exams to get acclimated. Make sure to leave the quiet comfort of your bedroom to get used to working in noisy public places. Do this often throughout bar prep, not just at the last minute when you are likely to be experiencing heightened stress.
Neighbors: Speaking of crowds, you may be surprised at how close you are sitting to the person next to you on exam days. Avoid paying attention to what others are doing — it doesn’t matter who starts writing first or how quickly your neighbor can fill in those little Scantron bubbles. Trust yourself.
Again, practicing in similar settings is key. Parallel studying with trusted colleagues can help. Many law schools also offer mock exam days where you practice under test-like conditions. If this is an option, attend if you are able. If not offered, consider suggesting it to your bar support administrator or organizing your own mock exam session with friends.
Physical discomfort: This can come in various forms, so try to anticipate all scenarios. Sitting for a long time can be uncomfortable, which makes practicing in one spot for several hours during prep important. Your exam room may also fluctuate between hot and cold. To be prepared, dress in layers of comfortable clothing on exam days. Be sure to also locate the closest restroom to your seat so that you can take a quick break, if necessary.
Additionally, hunger and thirst may cause you to lose focus and energy. A simple, healthy breakfast is crucial on exam days. Check your jurisdiction’s security policy to see what, if any, snacks you may bring into the room. Avoid salty, greasy, or unfamiliar foods — and noisy snacks that may distract others. If possible, bring a light lunch so you can eat at a leisurely pace during the break.
Anxiety: Stress is to be expected on exam days and time pressure is a main cause. To be ready, practice under timed conditions — especially towards the end of bar prep. Make a clear plan to keep track of timing, practice the plan, and commit to it. Consider jotting down the exact time you should finish each essay to avoid the temptation to borrow time from the next question. Accept that you will encounter doctrine that you can’t remember or just don’t know. Although this won’t feel good, it’s okay! Don’t allow yourself to get stuck on these questions — answer efficiently and move on.
At some point during the test, you may become overwhelmed by the pressure of this high stakes exam or experience a fact pattern that may trigger negative emotions. Have a plan for regaining focus if this happens. Will you get up and walk to the bathroom? Will you write out a mantra on scrap paper? Will you close your eyes and take three deep breaths before reading the next sentence? Plan and practice simple techniques like these so you can move through your anxiety instead of letting it move you.
While the causes of distraction and strategies for dodging them will vary from person to person, advance planning will help you stay focused and set yourself up for success. You can do it!
Florence Kerner is associate director of grading services and institutional partnerships with Helix Bar Review by AccessLex℠.
