As the beginning of the semester rolls around and classes start in full force, it's easy to fall into bad habits especially as you're finding your way around your schedule and workload. As you find your way through what works best for each class, you will inevitably pick up a few bad habits, like printing out worksheets right before class or procrastinating assignments until the night it's due. These are things that build up to habits like cramming before exams and stressing out way too much. Before we reach that point, here are some ways to keep on top of the game without losing your social life and your sanity.
It's important to keep your expectations realistic. You need to know what you can do. Maybe it's ambitious to say you'll study every Friday night, but is it actually going to happen? Know what is possible and what is not, and understand how you study best. If using notecards isn't your thing, don't bother with it. Try re-writing notes instead of highlighting the PowerPoints. Find out what works and how you can best utilize the resources the professor gives you. Do they upload the notes? Are there lectures online? Use what you have and create a method of staying on top of the material.
Check the syllabus. is there a schedule of topics? Stay ahead of class by at least skimming the chapters ahead of time. If the notes are uploaded on Blackboard, print them out and highlight points that look important. Topics will stick better in your head when you have some idea of what's going to happen in class. If you have time before class, do it right before then to really prime yourself for what's to come in lecture.
Actively listen in class. Take notes, but not word for word. Underline key terms and if pages are referenced write it all down. It doesn't have to look nice just legible. If there's a lot of information, type if you can. Typing may be quicker that way you can get more information down and can easily format later.
Review your notes after class. Rewrite them or highlight important terms, it'll help with retention more than trying to cram before an exam. Do this a least within 24 hours of the class and you will definitely remember more than you would expect.
Give yourself a break over the weekend to study. Devote a few hours of the weekend for reviewing class material. It'll make a huge difference in reducing workload. This way you won't need to cram a growing pile of chapters.
Cycle the topics that you study. Work on one subject for 20 minutes, take a 5-minute stretch break, look away from the computer and move your legs. Turn back to work on a different subject, rinse and repeat.
Remember that things will be okay, you have the potential to do great things and pass your classes. Put together a study playlist or listen to the Deep Focus one by Spotify, and do what you can. Even integrating just a few of these points will make a huge difference. Best of luck and hope everyone has the best semester yet!
