When the summer vacation ends and the university’s second semester (fall semester) begins, many students may want to focus on studying for qualifications in preparation for job hunting, in addition to classes, clubs, and part-time jobs. However, compared to the first half, there are many events and the second half is busier. In this article, we will introduce an efficient method of studying for qualifications that will help you pass the exam in a limited amount of time.

1. Abandon perfectionism and count backwards from “past questions”

The least efficient study method is to carefully read the text from the first page and try to understand everything. Qualification exams always have question quirks'' and frequently appearing areas.''

• Look at the past questions first: Even if you have zero knowledge, try opening the past questions and problem collections first. The first step is to understand in what format'' and to what depth of knowledge’’ will be asked.
• Golden ratio of input and output: Limit reading the text (input) to about 30% of the time, and use the remaining 70% to just solve past questions (output). The cycle of ``reading the explanation for the question you got wrong and then going back to the text’’ is the most memorable.

2. Make full use of your free time

Although it may be difficult to secure a few hours of study time, there are plenty of free moments hidden throughout the day, such as on the train to school, during free time in class, and during breaks at part-time jobs.

• Use smartphone apps: Use question-and-answer apps such as TOEIC vocabulary, IT passport, and bookkeeping. The trick is to make it a rule that you always use this app during the 15 minutes you are on the train.
• Learn by ear: An effective way to review is to play only the audio of explanatory videos on YouTube and listen to them while walking.

3. Incorporate “when to do it” into your schedule

You will never study if you say, ``I’ll do it when I have time.''

• Deduct study time: Just like when you save money, when planning your day, block off study time in advance (e.g. 30 minutes after you wake up each morning, 30 minutes before bed, etc.).
• Take advantage of the deadline effect: Instead of thinking “I’ll take the test someday,” first sign up for the test and pay the test fee. Having a clear goal (exam date) will make it easier to work backwards and plan.

4. Appropriate goal setting (be careful not to set too much)

Some people try to get their hands on multiple qualifications at random due to their impatience with job hunting, but this is not recommended.

• Choose a qualification that suits your purpose: Determine whether the qualification is truly valued in the industry you are applying to. (Example: Bookkeeper or FP in the financial industry, basic information engineer in the IT industry, etc.)
• Concentrate on one thing: Rather than studying simultaneously at the same time, it is better to concentrate on one qualification and make sure to complete it, which will result in results in a shorter period of time.

Summary

The key to successfully studying for qualifications during the busy university life in the second semester lies in strategic past question practice'' and thorough utilization of free time.’’ Establish your own study routine and gain the tools to face job hunting with confidence!