For most college students, exam season occurs about six times a year and each round is usually as stressful as the last. Here are some tips I've picked up and use that make studying so much easier and a lot less stressful:
1.Make flashcards
They may take some extra time, but writing out notecards is a great way to learn the information and also test yourself once you finish writing them out. They are also a portable way to bring your notes with you around campus so you can get some extra study time in.
2. Take notes by hand.
Though just typing your notes is easier it is proven that you remember more information when you write things out. If you can’t keep up with a fast paced lecturer, you can type the notes during lecture and rewrite them as a study tool when you get home.
3. Make lists and set goals.
One way to keep organized and ready for all work is to make to-do lists. Whether you make them daily, weekly, or monthly it will definitely help you to develop a study plan and give you time to prepare for your exam and get all your assignments in on time.
4. Read your textbook.
If you didn’t understand something in class or are completely lost on a concept go right to the source...your textbook. In the beginning of the semester you paid hundreds of dollars on books that you probably don't open much; but those books can be a big help during exam season. They explain everything in detail, give examples and many times provide practice problems that are similar to the test material.
5. Make notes neat and include visuals.
Writing out your notes neatly will make studying much more enjoyable and a lot easier! Instead of trying to figure out what you wrote down, you can focus on specifically the information. It also makes it easier to find certain topics and notes you need to review. Color coding by using different pens and highlighters is a great way to make your notes more focused on the important material. If you are a visual learner like myself, drawing pictures or diagrams may also help you remember the information. Have fun with it and make your note-taking style your own.
6. Find your study space.
7. Don't wait till the last minute.
A week from the exam you may feel like you have all the time in the world but that week will turn into a day before you know it. Create a study schedule and stick to it! Study a little each day so you are not cramming at the last minute because it will only cause stress and panic.
8. Eat and stay hydrated.
You may feel the need to study for your exam 24/7 with very minimal breaks but don’t skip meals or only drink coffee. I'm not a biology major, but I do know that your mind needs food and water in order to function just like the rest of your body, and when it’s deprived it doesn’t work as well. Though coffee may be your go to when studying (it is for me), having a bottle of water and a little snack once in awhile will greatly improve your studying.
9. Forget the all nighters.
Though all-niters sound appealing to most college students with exams coming up they are never a good idea. Getting a full night sleep will help you feel refreshed and ready the morning of your exam instead of like a zombie. Your memory will suffer if you get too tired so maybe save the all nighters and opt for a full night sleep before your next exam.
10. Don't over stress or over work yourself!
Your exams may seem like the most important thing in the world at the moment but don't over stress. Stress can interfere with your memory and make all your studying useless. Also, don't overwork yourself, it's better to take breaks and study for intervals than hours straight; your brain needs a break once and awhile and so do you. One test doesn't define you whether you plan on being a biologist, an engineer, an accountant or a doctor.
Good Luck on your studying and exams! I'm sure you'll do great! :)
