Many of you may read and ask,” Why is she posting an article about studying for exams? It’s only the second week of classes. She needs to chill." Well, my first exam unfortunately is on September 15th. Exams are the one aspect of school that I absolutely dread the most. However, I’m going to share my top study tips for all of you to ace your exams this semester.
1. Have a plan.
The worst feeling in the world is studying for an exam that you have no clue on what materials you need to cover for the exam. However, to eliminate this angst use a planner where all of your assignments are written out including when all of your exams are. This will allow you to have a visual representation on how to prioritize your studying for various exams.
2. Get all of your materials together.
Before I start studying in advance for exams (I like to spend at least two weeks prior to study) by gathering all of my materials together. This includes notes, flash cards with various terms, and of course your textbooks. However, if you have multiple exams in one day, gather all of your materials together into specific piles. This method will allow you stay organized and relaxed knowing that everything is organized.
3. Study Alone.
This may sound strange. However, the most effective way that I study is to work alone. Working alone allows you to be less distracted and more focused on reviewing all of the information presented in front of you.
4. Quiz yourself with flashcards and note cards.
Flashcards and practice tests for me are the best ways of preparing for any exam. Some people (you are lucky) can simply re-read all of the information in a textbook and perform well. However, I don’t retain all of the information I need to know in that specific manner. To ensure that I will remember all of the information I quiz myself by writing terms on flashcards and taking practice tests in the textbooks.
5. Eat a healthy snack.
Studying for extended periods of times can cause anyone to be starved. However, studying for exams is similar to running a marathon. You need to be in your prime to get the best results. That is why I recommend eating healthy snack such as fruit instead of eating chips. This healthy snack will allow you to be full and stay focused instead of feeling sluggish.
6. Avoid procrastinating.
Lets be real: we all procrastinate. We either scroll on Twitter, like endless posts on Instagram, or constantly check our phones. However, my recommendation is to use this app called Self Control. This app blocks all social media outlets for whatever time period you are studying for. This is a lifesaver.
7. Take breaks.
You can’t sit for nine hours without being uncomfortable. I recommend taking a 10-15 minute break every hour. Most importantly, time your breaks in order to avoid any distraction such as talking to your friends in the library.
8. Have a positive mindset.
This is the most important tip that I can give you. Simply remind yourself that you did the best you could do and everything will be okay.
These eight tips will definitely help anyone no matter what you are majoring in. I have used these tips since high school when taking classes ranging from Physics to AP Art History. I still use this study method today because they work like a charm. Happy Studying!
