RUME 28
2026
Alexandria, Virginia
College Students' Perspectives on and Use of Exam Note Sheets in Intermediate Algebra
Page: 1138
Creating and bringing a sheet of notes to a math exam can help students perform better and feel less anxious, but not all note sheets are equally helpful. This study explores how undergraduate students prepare and use exam note sheets in an intermediate algebra course. We surveyed 119 students about how they created and used their exam note sheet and how they perceived the usefulness of their sheet. We also collected students’ note sheets and exam scores. Preliminary analyses revealed that most students spent less than two hours preparing their note sheet. Most students felt the note sheet helped them study for and perform well on the exam and lessened their anxiety. Forthcoming analysis will explore relationships between students’ exam performance and features and use of their sheet. Findings can be used to develop guidance for students on how to more effectively prepare and use exam note sheets.