The semester just began. You probably have all of your syllabi by now and have begun to feel overwhelmed. You've looked over all of your classes and can already tell you'll have a loaded semester. It is recommended that a college student study at least 2-3 hours a week (per class) but between being a full time student, having a job and extracurricular activities, who honestly has the time? Either way it is important to incorporate studying into your weekly schedules, in order to avoid looking like this during finals week:

Here is a list of tips for successful studying:

1. Read before class

If this is an assigned reading, read a few days before the class so that you can thoroughly understand the readings. Highlight key terms, write questions in the margins of the text and summarize your readings on your own so that you reinforce the information into your brain. If the reading wasn't assigned, you should scan over it in order to get an idea on what it's about.

2. Record your lectures

Some professors use slideshows, which I find to be very helpful. If you're good at multitasking, take notes from the slide while the professor is explaining the information. If you're not, sit in the front of the class and record the lecture (with permission of course) or take pictures of the slides and look over them later.

3. GO TO CLASS

I'm an English major and I have found on several occasions that I read a text and get one interpretation and go to class to find that I was totally wrong. Don't assume that because you did an assignment you don't need to attend the class. There is always additional information given in class that you may not have gathered while doing your independent reading. Since you did the reading before hand, you can use class time to clear up some unanswered questions you had on the text.

4. Review

Reviewing after a class within 24 hours is more beneficial for you because the information is still fresh in your brain. You should also re-read the things your professor really emphasized.

5. Pace yourself

Studying can be a lot on the brain. If you are studying and find that you're becoming tired, your head is hurting, or you're unfocused, you may be overworked. Remember that it's quality over quantity. A thorough study session that lasts half an hour is better than a three hour study session where no information was retained.

6. Test the material

This has to be the most effective study method I've ever used. There are many ways you can "test yourself" to see if you have a firm grasp on the material. You can make flash cards, make yourself a practice exam or teach the material to someone else. When retaining new information, reiteration is always helpful.

7. Invest in a planner

Planners are the G.O.A.T. when it comes to college. Never underestimate the ability of a planner to get your life together. They can be used for assignment deadlines, to-do lists and much more. If you consistently use your planner, it is easier for you to prepare for exams with more than enough time.

8. Balance is always key!

Take a break. You can't be all work and no play. Studying can be stressful and it's important to let your mind and body relax. Some of my favorite rewinding activities are watching Netflix, eating a well-prepared meal, giving myself a facial or ... just taking a nap.

I hope these tips were helpful and you incorporate them into your schedule this semester. Your mind, body and GPA will thank-you later.