Wine Exam Prep
Tips for Studying for an Exam: Prepare with Confidence!
Preparing for a wine certification exam can be a daunting task, especially when you get into higher certifications. With so much material to cover, it's important to have a strategy in place to maximize your studying efforts. In this blog post, we will explore some helpful tips and techniques to help you feel confident going into the exam.
Step 1: Read, Read, Read
Reading through the text multiple times is a great way to build a strong foundation of knowledge. Start by reading for comprehension, making sure you understand the main ideas and concepts. Then, on your second reading, take notes to highlight key points and unfamiliar terms/concepts. Finally, read through the text again to connect themes like climate and soil type for a specific grape in a specific region. For example, Cabernet Sauvignon behaves differently in Bordeaux than it does in Napa Valley. This will help you develop a deeper understanding of the material and allow you to analyze information.
Step 2: Start with Your Troublesome Topics
We all have our weak spots when it comes to studying wine. Whether it's a particular region or production method, start your study sessions by focusing on these challenging topics. For example, I know that I’m weak in Australian wine regions, so I will spend more time studying Australia than I would France. Don't feel obligated to follow the order of the text. Prioritize the areas where you need the most improvement and tackle them head-on.
Step 3: Practice Different Study Techniques
To make your studying more effective and engaging, try experimenting with different study techniques. Here are a few ideas to consider:
Flashcards: Use flashcards to memorize production methods, styles, grapes, wine laws, and appellations. This method is especially helpful for quick fact recall.
Visual Notetaking: For visual learners, create little drawings that depict the material you're studying. Rewrite flowcharts and diagrams in your own way to reinforce your understanding.
Tracing Maps: Learning the different regions, major geological features, and subregions can be challenging. Try tracing maps and including these elements to help you visualize and remember the information better.
Map out Your Favorite Producers: In tricky regions, mapping out your favorite producers can help you better understand their styles and preferences. Love the Loire Valley? Map out producers that you know from Muscadet Sevre-et-Main all the way to Sancerre.
Taste, Taste, Taste!: To learn the classical expression of different grapes, engage in sighted and blind tastings. If possible, taste with several different groups to expose yourself to a variety of palates. Whether you are studying for CMS or WSET, both speaking and writing out your notes is helpful for study.
Record Yourself: A great way to reinforce your understanding is by recording yourself explaining processes, terms, laws, and other important concepts. Listening to your explanations can help you identify areas that need improvement. Listen to these recordings while driving or on a walk.
Simulate the Exam Environment: As the exam approaches, try to recreate the exam environment as much as possible. Sit in a quiet room with only the allowed materials and a timer to get a feel for how long you have to complete the exam. Take advantage of places like your local library to ensure you will have a distraction-free environment.
Use What You Have to Simulate Service: For exams that include a service component, use your furniture to simulate the experience. Fill empty chairs with friends, stuffed animals, or pillows and practice pouring while talking about wine. This will help you build confidence and master the art of service.
Step 4: Remember to Take Breaks and Take Care of Yourself
Studying for long periods without breaks can lead to burnout and decreased productivity. It's essential to take regular breaks and take care of yourself. Use time blocking methods, like the Pomodoro method, which involves studying for a set period (e.g., 25 minutes), followed by a short break (e.g., 5 minutes). This technique helps ensure you have time away from the material to recharge.
Step 5: Trust Your Preparation on Exam Day
When exam day finally arrives, trust in the hard work you've put into preparing for the exam. Avoid last-minute cramming, as it can cause unnecessary stress and hinder your performance. Instead, take a deep breath, have confidence in your abilities, and believe in yourself.
Step 6: Positive Self-Talk
As you head into the exam, use positive self-talk to keep your spirits high and combat any anxiety or self-doubt. Remind yourself of all the effort you've put into studying and visualize yourself succeeding. A positive mindset can make a world of difference when it comes to exam performance.
With these tips in your study arsenal, you're well on your way to acing your exam! Remember to approach your studying with a positive mindset, take breaks when needed, and trust in your preparation. Good luck, and remember to celebrate your accomplishments along the way. You've got this!
