The middle of October introduces not only the onset of mid-semester blues, but also pre-miderm anxiety. Completing both normal classwork and studying for exams is a huge task, but it is not impossible. Follow these five simple steps to make your study sessions a little easier!
1. Make a list
There is a feeling of accomplishment that comes just from making a list of things you need to do. Laying your daily tasks out in front of you on a sheet of paper declutters your mind greatly. Stop worrying about remembering all the things you need to do, and instead worry about completing one item on the list at a time.
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2. Prioritize
The whole idea of making a list isn't going to be very effective unless that list is prioritized. What is due soonest should be at the top, and what is due latest should be closer to the bottom. Don't let this reduce your motivation to study for exams, though. Try your best to schedule in 15-20 minutes of studying for each subject as one of your priorities each day, even though their exams may be more than a week away. The repetition of studying materials each day will help your mind retain a solid grasp on the information.
3. Take breaks!
Studying for two hours straight is not always as good for you as you may think! In fact, you'll probably spend more time distracted in those two hours than you will spend working. Figure out a concrete schedule of when you will take breaks in order to maximize your focus.
A personal favorite method of mine for break-taking is the Pomodoro Technique. It encourages 25-minute lengths of uninterrupted work followed by five-minute breaks. Repeat this process four times, then treat yourself to a longer, half-hour break. Doing work in short bursts then taking breaks to walk, stretch, or grab a cup of coffee has been proven to increase productivity.
4. Listen to your body
Hungry? Have a snack. Thirsty? Grab some water. Tired? Take a half-hour power nap.
Don't deny yourself the things your body needs because you are pushing yourself to study. In the end, studying while hungry, thirsty, or tired will take much longer than the added time of fixing that problem would.
5. Reward your progress
You are a force of nature! Not only are you studying for midterms while keeping up in course work, but you are doing it in an effective and healthy way! Don't forget to treat yo'self to a piece of candy, a mini dance party, or a quick gaming session after you finish a large task. You're doing great, so why not act like it?
