It is midterm season! Time for stress-induced coffee runs and late night cram sessions in the library. Although it signifies that we are halfway done with the semester (YAY!) midterms can seriously mess with one's inner strength. I know it's hard but here are some tips to help you tame the beast that is studying for those awful exams.
1. Set goals
As simple as it sounds, it actually makes a big difference. It has been proven again and again that people that set goals for themselves are more likely to succeed long-term. Make sure they are attainable while still pushing your limits. You want to push yourself to be better, but you also don't want to crush your spirit when you don't meet your goals. Maybe you plan to finish that 10-page paper two days before it's due so you have a little extra buffer and time to proof-read.
2. Plan things out
Give yourself deadlines and make a schedule. Give bullet journaling a try! This also helps with making and attaining your goals. If you give yourself mini-deadlines or to-do tasks and keep track of them it will help you visualize your progress and keep you motivated! Having things planned out will also reduce the amount of stress so you don't forget to complete an assignment. Agendas are your best friend!!
3. Be organized
This doesn't just apply to having your schedule organized. Having a clean living space will also put you in the right mind frame to work hard. Also, you won't be able to procrastinate by cleaning instead. Start every day by making your bed!
4. Get enough sleep
Nothing will set you back more than falling asleep in class. Waking up and being able to start the day refreshed will put you in a much better position to carry on. Yay for a positive frame of mind!
5. Set some time aside for you
If you wake up in the morning, go to class, study and that's all, you might literally go insane. Take at least one hour of every day to do something fun or peaceful to give your mind a break. Your mind needs time to recover and retain all the information you are trying to shove in it all at once. Don't forget the benefits of deep breaths!
6. Study with friends.
You don't even need to be studying the same subject; although, that can come in handy. Just being around people who make you happy who can provide the occasional distraction can keep you from descending into a frustrated mess.
You've got this, guys! Good luck with those exams and papers!
