Though it takes time and real effort to prepare for an examination, the test takers dare to take the challenge for we know what is at stake when one successfully hurdles the assessment… it makes the path closer to whatever we are pursuing. A comprehensive test like the OPRA (Overseas Pharmacist Readiness Assessment) is one of these exams that really needs preparation and creating a study plan will help you organize your pre-examination activities.
Your available time and resources are properly organized in a study plan to make sure nothing is wasted and this will guide you to achieve your academic goals. The top benefits of using a study plan aside from an organized schedule and effective time management are reduced stress, improved focus, and enhanced confidence.
So, how do you create a study plan aside from taking the OPRA exam preparation course?
Be aware of the OPRA syllabus. Understanding the distribution of the percentage of the exam into different topics will help you allocate your study time proportionally to the importance of each section – Biomedical Sciences (20%), Medicinal Chemistry and Biopharmaceutics (10%), Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics (10%), Pharmacology and Toxicology (15%), and Therapeutics and Patient Care (45%).
Assess your strengths and weaknesses. Are you confident in Medicinal Chemistry but having issues with Pharmacology? Do you find Therapeutics challenging due to its breadth? Assess yourself early to help you prioritize topics that need more attention.
Divide your study time effectively. Use the syllabus weightage to allocate your study time. If you have 150 hours to review, use 30 hours for Biomedical Sciences, 15 hours each for Medicinal Chemistry/Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics, 22.5 hours for Pharmacology and Toxicology, and 67.5 hours for Therapeutics and Patient Care. But you should adjust this time allocation depending also on your strengths and weaknesses.
Set daily and weekly goals. Divide your study hours into manageable daily and weekly goals like focusing on Biomedical Sciences and Medicinal Chemistry in the first week, Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics in the the second week, and so on until you covered everything efficiently.
Use active learning techniques. Engage in active learning methods to improve retention of information like the use of flashcards, practice questions, diagrams, and charts.
Incorporate regular reviews. Set aside at least one day a week to revisit your previously covered material. Using summary notes and highlighting key points makes the review session more manageable. Allow yourself to take time-pressured mock tests to gauge your progress and build confidence in the exam format.
Balance study and rest. You need not just a sound mind but also a healthy body for the OPRA exam. Aim for seven to eight hours of daily sleep, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and regular breaks to avoid burnout.
Utilize resources. Your study plan should not only rely on textbooks, but also on online courses, video tutorials, and joining study groups and discussion forums.
Yes, the OPRA exam is a challenging endeavor, but with the right attitude and a well-organized plan, achieving your dream is not far behind. Follow these steps and create a comprehensive study plan now.