Whether you are a college student cramming for a final exam or a working adult trying to prepare for a professional licensing exam, there are several expert-recommended tips to be as prepared as possible. Here's what you need to know about test preparation.

Plan. Don't procrastinate.

Cramming the night before an exam is not an effective way to learn the material and is more likely to lead to anxiety and poor performance on the test. Instead, plan ahead by breaking down the material into manageable chunks and studying a little bit each day.

Create a study schedule and stick to it. Dedicate a specific amount of time each day to studying and make sure you stick to your schedule.

Use what tools you are given.

Study old tests and quizzes. Not only will it help you establish how the exam may be formatted, but some of those questions may also be on the actual exam. Additionally, if you are given a study guide for the exam, use it.

Review with a group.

If you have trouble sticking to a study schedule on your own, consider finding a study buddy or joining a study group. University experts state that studying with a group "can help solidify and clarify course materials" for you.

Limit your study time.

The American Psychological Association states that it is better to spread your study time out over several weeks. You learn, and more importantly, retain the information better when you study in multiple short sessions rather than one big cram session.

Use a test preparation service.

There are many test prep services available, both online and in-person. These services can help you better understand the material and give you strategies for taking the exam. Furthermore, they can help identify your strengths and weaknesses which will allow you to focus your study time more efficiently.

Get a good night's sleep.

Rather than cramming all night, get plenty of rest and exercise leading up to the exam. Eating healthy foods will help improve your focus and concentration and a full eight hours of sleep will help your brain function at its best.

Take your time on test day.

While not exactly part of test preparation, be sure to take your time during the exam. Do not rush through your answers. Move through the exam slowly and methodically.

This is another way a test prep service can help you prepare. They can teach you proper test-taking techniques in addition to helping you study.

In conclusion, test preparation takes time, effort, and focus. If you follow these expert tips, you will be as prepared as possible for test day.