Studying for finals can be the most stressful time of the school year, but I have some tips to put you at ease. Finals are gradually approaching for us all and I want everyone to do well. But you don't have to just use these tips for finals, I think you should use the tips throughout the entire semester so that you can keep your grades in tip top shape. Good luck to all during finals, I believe in you.
1. Revise your notes
Read through all of your notes and add sticky notes to topics that require more information or research. make flashcards for the information that you struggle to retain. spend less time on topics that you already know, but that does not mean that you shouldn't study that material
2. When taking notes outside of class
summarize the information from your textbooks, power points, and notes. Try putting the information in your own words. organize the information so that your notes flow in a logical order. use highlights for vocabulary words, concepts, important information. Circle things that you do not understand so you can spend more time on that.
3. When taking notes during class
do not try to copy the power points (if the teacher posts them on blackboard) but focus on what the teacher says aloud. Teachers usually go more in depth about a concept and explain it better during class, rather than the information provided on the powerpoint
4. When you're given homework
always try to do the homework as close to the date that it was given as possible so that you will be able to consolidate concepts and vocabulary before you forget them. This way you can figure out what you do and do not understand ahead of time and can ask better questions in class.
5. When studying....
Try to study for minimum of 30 minutes each day. If you are going to study longer then only study for about 30 minutes at a time. Break up the material into sections so it is easier to retain information. After reading each section, make sure you can recall what you just learned. Take at least 5 to 15 minute breaks after every 30 minutes. Do not ever try to cram your brain with loads of information in one night.
6. Eat a balanced diet, hydrate, exercise, and stay well rested
make sure you eat fruits and vegetable. drink lots of water and try to get in a bit of exercise each day. even just going for a walk to get some sun will make studying easier. Most importantly get at least eight hours of sleep each night.
7. Memorization tips
figure out if you learn better in social or quiet environments. try focusing on the order. type or hand write out the words, the cut them out into individual pieces. then attempt to put the parts in the correct order. instead of just repeating words or facts aloud, go back and forth every other word with a partner. If you prefer to work alone then say the word or definition aloud, the write it down, and the close your eyes and repeat it.
8. Rid of all distractions when studying
sit at a desk when you study instead of sitting on your bed. put your phone on do not disturb. if you want to listen to music put on a playlist and refrain from skipping music. turn off your tv and try not to use your laptop. only study with friends that intend to study and not goof around.
9. Try recording Lecture With Your phone
Try recording Lectures in class or if you do not understand the lecture find a friend that understands and ask them if you can record them and the explanation they give you. That way it will be easier to recall information when practicing later.
10. Remember to Breathe and Try not to stress too much
A grade is not worth your mental health. If it is causing your mental health to go down, such as panic attacks and mental break downs then you need to take a step back and just let that go. Your mental health is much more important than a letter. It does not define you.
