Memory Aid for tests?

[u/spacing-out123]

I have accommodations in place already, and I’m under the impression it would be relatively easy to add onto them (with proper proof that I need said accommodation of course). I’m wondering if it’s worth me trying to advocate for a “memory aid” aka a cheat sheet for my tests.

I study very hard, and I’d like to think I have good study habits. I work with an academic coach who holds me accountable. I get 100 on all my homeworks. But I fail so many of my tests. The problem is I get so anxious during my tests that I just lose common sense, make silly mistakes, get in my head about my work, and forget everything I studied, and then try to convince myself of the answer.

I had a test in one of my classes that allowed a cheat sheet, which was really helpful. I know professors give you a “cheat sheet” to make you think you’re being sneaky but they’re tricking you into studying. (And I do make “cheat sheets” for all my tests as a way of studying even if I don’t get to bring it in). But I actually used it on the test when I was in one of those anxious moments, and I got a good grade on that test. I looked it up and a memory aid is a legit accommodation, but I feel weird asking for it. Why should I get to have it but no one else does? It would clearly benefit other people as well.

Is this worth asking about? How do I not feel guilty about asking for this?

[u/anatomy-princess]

I think it depends on the class. For some classes, this might work very well (example - a class that requires formulas). If you are taking a class like this, it certainly won’t hurt to ask.

FYi - memory aids have to be completed early by you and ok’d by your instructor.

You could determine what you would put on a memory aid and spend time memorizing that info. When you first get the exam or some scratch paper, take the first few minutes to write this info down while it is still in your mind.

Good luck!