When preparing for the NBDE exam, there are specific details that candidates need to pay attention to. Below is a short list of what we feel is most important...
1. Thoroughly read through the iNBDE syllabus
Reading through the NBDE syllabus will help you understand exactly what you need to cover during your review. It is also a good idea to make notes on your own analysis of your grasp of the syllabus content; find your weaknesses and try and fill in the gaps. Knowing areas of weakness is extremely important. Within our subscriber courses, our tutors are on hand to help you in reducing your weaknesses and improve your strengths.
2. Take time to grasp iNBDE content
There is an abundance of resources for you to prepare for the NBDE, our job is to direct you to the ones that are most up-to-date and effective. You can access materials from your local library, from the internet, from fellow students and teachers, take advantage of as many resources as possible. Take time to read through any relevant material that you can get your hands on. Reviews on books, which were helpful to other students for their NBDE course, could give you necessary guidance as you select what to use for revision.
Below is some advice to ensure you get the most out of the content you review:
- Read through every piece of relevant material on a given topic such as textbooks, references, lecture notes etc.
- Take a multimedia approach. Reading textbooks is fine but why not make it a bit more interesting by using podcasts or watching videos on the subject matter.
- Answer sample questions on the particular topic using one of our online courses.
- Repeat the above steps until you are eventually comfortable with the subject matter.
3. Learn from what you know works
By now you have probably sat over 50 exams. Look at your experience objectively, there is a lot of bad practice out there, learn from your mistakes. The main pitfalls during study include spending too much time making notes look pretty, dwelling on one specific subjects, not getting the breadth of knowledge you need and lastly not knowing what you really need to know.
4. Make efficient use of your time
It is good to determine what amount of time is at your disposal compared to the content you need to cover. Since the NBDE is probably one of the most important ventures that you have ever decided to undertake, it would be prudent to find time and make the most of it. In respect to preparation for the exam, the minimum that is required is around 2 months of at least 3 hours a day. Creating a study timetable would be a good step towards the efficient use of time. Consider creating study groups where you can meet regularly or Facebook where you can talk remotely about the subject. Remember, the most effective way to learn is to practice, do as many questions as possible and discuss what you think with people doing the same.
5. Understand how to interpret and apply guidelines and regulations.
Familiarize yourself with relevant guidelines and regulations, and practice applying them to real-world scenarios.
6. Take care of your physical and mental health.
Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in activities that help you relax and reduce stress.
7. Seek help if you need it.
If you are having difficulty with the material, don't hesitate to seek help from one of our tutor or your designated study group.
8. Finally
Lastly, as you prepare for the course, make sure you have every detail that is required for both the course as well as the exam. The main requirements include:
- Eligibility letter sent to JCDNE
- DENTPIN
- Get a test-date in your calendar
- Know where you will take your exam
- Make sure you have the necessary identification for the exam