Studying for the NAVLE?  Here’s 7 Exam Tips for Keeping You On Your “A” Game

For those of you preparing for the NAVLE, good luck! We know that studying veterinary medicine is challenging, there is so much to learn, so little time and very few resources. We asked veterinary students and practitioners what they did to study for the NAVLE and ace the test, and here’s what they had to say:

1) Keep Your NAVLE Studies Organized

Having a plan and understanding what needs to be covered is helpful in making sure you don’t miss anything before the big exam. Students that are able to make a NAVLE study plan and guide, and create a list of materials that need to be covered are better able to prioritise the areas according to the amount of materials within them. By breaking down topics to cover per day, you’ll be able to set a realistic expectation and give yourself a buffer.

2) Get to Know Your Learning Style

There isn’t a magic way of learning that works for everyone. Sometimes you need to get creative in order to better suit your learning style.  Try combining lecture notes, textbooks, and outside sources into summary notes. Use mnemonic devices or flashcards to help with memory retention. For those visual learners using pictures, diagrams and creating visual flowcharts and mind maps (or virtual 3D!) will keep that information better locked in your memory.  

3) Don’t Be A Lone Wolf

When it comes to studying for the NAVLE, together is better. Find a study buddy or create a study group. You can use the joint study time to quiz each other using flashcards and quiz apps, or use them as a sounding board to discuss processes, diagrams and work through clinical cases together. Don’t be the guy or gal talking themselves in the corner asking and answering their own questions. Get some friends.  

4) Eat Some Memory Boosting Foods

Keep your mind sharp when studying for the NAVLE by choosing to eat foods high in Vitamin E and Omega 3 Fatty Acids. Some food suggestions:

Vitamin E

• Vegetable oils, seeds, nuts, and whole grains
• Dark green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, collard greens and broccoli
• Avocado
• Sunflower Seeds- 1 ounce contains 30% of daily vitamin-E intake
• Peanuts and peanut butter

Omega 3 Fatty Acids

• Fish: salmon, mackerel, and tuna

A quick Google Search will bring up plenty more memory boosting food suggestions, if you’re hungry for more 🙂

5) Get Physical! 

Exercise and stay active while studying for the NAVLE. 20-30 minutes of vigorous physical activity daily can increase alertness and enhance sleep (and can also help reduce stress).  

6) Get Some Rest

Keeping a sleep routine is ideal. Try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time everyday. If you’re not getting a full night’s sleep, cat naps for 20 minutes or less can help revive you during the day. Anything longer than 30 minutes can make you drowsy and interfere with your sleep. A well-rested mind will retain more information, and help you get better results on your NAVLE exam!

7) Stay Focused

Do you catch yourself on Instagram or scrolling through cat videos on YouTube when you’re supposed to be studying? In the age of iPhones and the Internet, one can easily get distracted with “fun” distractions. You’ll need your laptop while studying for the NAVLE so we recommend using apps like SelfControl to block your access to any websites that might distract you.

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EasyAnatomy is designed to be adaptable, and customizable to you. Studying for the NAVLE with EasyAnatomy ensures you’re always efficient, and focusing on where you need to improve, and our content creation tools enable you to further personalize your learning experience!