A long week of final exams is quickly approaching and I know that there are a million things that I would rather be doing than studying. When it comes to procrastination, I am the queen. But for what it's worth, I've made it to my junior year of college somehow and feel I should share my knowledge to my fellow procrastinating students on how to study successfully, less painfully, and in enough time for you to squeeze in that Netflix show you've been binge-watching. (I'm talking to you, House of Cards.)
1. Make Quizlet your new best friend.
Quizlet is literally the best thing to ever happen to a college student, especially a lazy procrastinator like me. It has study guides, flash cards, even games to help you through your tears and troubles.
2. Coffee, coffee and more coffee.
Cliche as it is, coffee is amazing at helping you focus and stay alert. Beware of the debilitating crash, though. I would say my tip is to keep it coming!
(If you're a Starkville resident like me, you have coffee shops like Strangebrew, 929, and Starbucks at your fingertips.)
(This image is called "Tired student girl withbooks and coffee sleeping on the table" - same.)
3. Isolation.
If you're like my significant other, you cannot be around people, especially friends. It can cause a distraction and keep you from doing your thing studying.
4. Study Groups!
On the other hand, if being alone isn't for you, working in groups might be your best option. There are plenty of study groups on campus that are successful. You know those people who have texted you all year and asked if you wanted to join their study group and you're like "eh, hard pass"? Well, today is the day to be social, my friend, because more than likely a person in the group is going to have the answers that you don't have!
5. Highlighters
I am the type of person who cannot focus on a black and white page full of information. That is where my highlighters come in. Even if I have to highlight the entire page, if I am using different colors for different information, it helps studying go smoothly and rapidly.
6. CAMPUS RESOURCES!
Our campus provides us with an excellent library to print all of your material, some awesome study rooms that are nice and quiet, or if you enjoy studying outside, there are plenty of nice study areas all throughout campus.
7. Snacks
Make sure to bring snacks to your study session. They'll help keep your energy up and let you focus more.
Here are some ideas for what to bring to the table (literally).
8. Make a StudyBlue account
StudyBlue is like Quizlet on adderall. It has the same features (flashcards, notes, etc) but different material. Some notes that I can't find on Quizlet I can usually find on StudyBlue. The trick with StudyBlue is that you have to make an account - but don't worry, it's free!
9. Don't PROCRASTINATE!
I say as I write this article instead of study. Sleepiness is temporary, GPA is forever.
10. Get Comfortable
If you're not comfortable, studying will be the last thing on your mind. Find a spot that you feel will help you get your work done, wear pajamas or sweatpants, and delve in.
