Studying for the Journeyman Electrician’s Exam can be a daunting task. It requires time, dedication, and patience. In addition, due to the COVID-19 situation, ABC and WECA classes have been moved online. This transition will present a new set of obstacles that require a strict self-regulated studying regimen. Students must demonstrate self-motivation in order to succeed. It may be slightly more challenging, but it is not impossible! There are ways to navigate this new reality and come out stronger on the other side. Don’t worry – we are here to help! We have gathered 15 helpful study tips for passing your Journeyman Electrician’s Exam or excelling at your ABC or WECA courses. We are all in this together. We want to see you succeed and we want to see this industry continue to grow!
Here are our tips!
- Do a full read through of the material
As you are getting started, it is important to complete a full read through of the material so that you can start digesting the material. Repetition is extremely important for learning and giving yourself a strong base to start off with is a key factor for success
- Take handwritten notes
Studies have shown that taking organized handwritten notes helps with the learning process. Taking handwritten notes has shown to be more generative because you tend to condense information into more useful forms. It engages your brain more deeply and encourages a stronger sense of understanding
- Make a study guide or “cheat sheet” of concepts that you need to review
Making a study guide or “cheat sheet” helps you connect concepts together, finding patterns and helping you keep track of what you need to review. A study guide will act as a roadmap for your future studying and make the studying process both more efficient and effective
- Prioritize concepts that you aren’t as familiar with
As humans, we may have the tendency to want to study concepts that we already know to make us feel better about ourselves. In order to be successful, you should spend a significant amount of time learning new concepts or working on ones that you do not understand. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t know something right away! Instead, dig in and really try to learn it!
- Set a goal
Setting a goal each day for studying helps keep you on track, prevent procrastination, and holds you accountable. For example, setting a goal of studying 25 questions today is a great way to make sure that you are actively moving forward in your learning process
- Practice the 50/10 Rule
The 50/10 rule suggests that you study 50 minutes and then take a 10-minute break. This helps keep your brain fresh and prevents burnout. Remember stretch and keep good posture!
- Connect theories and concepts to real-world experiences
Relating concepts to practical applications solidifies your knowledge and understanding of the theory or concept. It improves memory and can make both your studying and work life more productive! For example, if you are working as an apprentice at a job site, try to connect what you learn in class to your daily activities on the job
- Quiz yourself or have someone else quiz you
Being quizzed increases repetition and helps test your knowledge – allowing you to evaluate what you have learned. From there, you can identify the areas that need improvement and go from there
- Take Practice Tests
Similar to being quizzes, practice tests help you test your knowledge and understanding -- giving you a realistic representation of what you really know
- Simulate the testing environment
When studying tor taking a practice exam, it is important to simulate the testing environment. Be sure to take at least several full practice exams to prepare yourself for what it will be like on your test day
- Try to limit interruptions
Studying at home can be hard. Try to stay focused and engaged with what you are working on in order to get the most out of your study time. Both auditory and visual distractions can hinder your learning. Shut the door, turn off your phone, and consider putting in earplugs
- Keep your study space clean and uncluttered
While studying it is important to feel at peace and undistracted. Remember, a clear space allows for a clear mind!
- If stumped, ask for help
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t know the answer! Don’t be afraid to reach out to your teachers, fellow students, or even your foreman at work for help! If you can’t figure out the answer or do not understand why something is the answer, try an online forum or ask someone in your field
- Don’t study tired – make sure to get enough sleep
Studying tired can train your brain that study time equals nap time. If you study tired, you are likely to feel tired during the exam. Be sure to get plenty of rest and study at a time of day when you are awake
- Look into test prep solutions
Be sure to look into textbooks, apps, exam prep courses, or other study aids for additional help
