It's the time, you guys. If you haven't already taken your first exam, you will be very soon. Studying for exams can be difficult; you never know what to expect. So, I have compiled practices that I like to follow no matter what the exam may be.
Organize your notes ahead of time.
The key to any good study session is to have organized notes. Sitting down to study and not being able to navigate where things are can be super frustrating and time-consuming. So, organize your notes ahead of time! I like to organize my notes the day that I take them because it keeps me from getting behind; however, this isn't realistic for everyone. I would just recommend making sure that your notes are organized at three days ahead of the time that you actually plan to start studying.
Turn your cell phone off while you study.
OK, let's be real for a minute: Social Media has consumed our lives. I know that I personally get very distracted. Sometimes, most times, while I am studying, I'll find myself randomly on my cell phone without even realizing that I picked it up. So, while studying, I believe it is beneficial to turn your cell phone off altogether. Perhaps turn your cell phone off and study for 30 minutes to an hour, and then turn it back on for a 10-minute break!
Spread your study time out in certain time increments.
So, kind of like I mentioned before (study X time and then take a 10-minute break), you can do this to feel more motivated to get your studying done! Almost like an award system. Also, spreading your study time out and taking a break, all in all, makes you feel lest exhausted. Nobody likes studying for eight hours at a time. So, spread your study time (maybe a couple of hours a day) throughout the week, and reward yourself with short breaks!
Pulling an all nighter is not advised.
I know college students do it ALL of the time, but it really isn't the healthiest thing. Also, it genuinely just exhaust your brain; there comes a point where you really aren't even taking in any material anymore.
With that... get some sleep!
We all LOVE to sleep! It rejuvenates our body and mind. So, before your big exam, get a good night's sleep! Your brain will feel brand new the next morning.
Write things out!
This may not work for everyone, but it works for me. So, I'm gonna throw this little tip in there. I learn best when I write things out! It's almost as if I absorb the material as the paper does. Even if my professor gives us printed material, I choose to write it out because it just helps me to learn it better. So, if writing things out helps you to remember things, do it! Even if it does take a little extra time, it will be worth it.
Eat a good breakfast the day of!
We have all heard the saying "breakfast is the most important meal of the day." Whether you personally believe this, it does wake your mind up and makes you feel more awake as a whole. So, before taking a big exam, eat a good breakfast! It's the little things that help!
Ask questions ahead of time.
Don't be afraid to ask your professors questions! If you don't understand something, go to your professor's office hours and ask them to explain. It is so much better than feeling like a deer in headlights while studying.
Don't wait until last minute to prepare yourself!
We are college students; procrastinating is in our DNA. But, it is important to truly be prepared for big exams. Don't wait until the night before to prepare yourself for your exam. It only results in frustration and doubt. So, prepare yourself in a timely manner! You've got this!
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