Whether you are a freshman or a senior, that dreaded time of cramming for exams is upon us. Don’t bother trying to sleep in or find distractions because, like it or not, there’s no escaping it.
The following are a few brief study tips to help keep you on track as you cram for exams during the next week and a half:
1. Start early. Studying should not begin the night before, or even two nights before, your exam. Studying for any exam, especially a final, should begin as soon as you find out the material that will be on the test.
By beginning early, you’ll give yourself enough time to ask professors questions and clear up confusing material that has been covered throughout the semester.
There’s nothing worse than realizing that you’re missing notes the night before your final.
2. Create a schedule. By looking up the dates of your finals and budgeting time to study, you can use study time more effectively. How many times have you spent all night studying and then at midnight realized you’ve been studying for the wrong test?
Get ahead and you won’t get caught in a jam. You’ll also reduce stress and give yourself more time for large amounts of material as the exam day approaches.
3. Choose a good study location. Yes, the year is ending and you want to spend every waking minute with your friends. But when it comes to effective studying, pick a location that will keep distractions to a minimum.
The library and study lounges always make for good study locations, but if you don’t want to miss out on the warm weather, consider quiet places outside.
The tables outside of Donnarumma Hall or the hill outside of the library are quiet enough to study and allow you to soak up the sun simultaneously.
4. Study in a group. All students have different study habits. Some study better independently while others study better in groups. But try to mix it up.
If you always study alone, get together with a few classmates and discuss class material. Tossing around ideas may clarify information for all students involved. You may even make some new friends in the process.
5. Strategize. Find the strategy that works best for you. Whether it’s flashcards or study guides, figure out what helps you to study most efficiently and stick to it.
Memorizing material is never an enjoyable task, but if you discover a method which works well for you, studying for thie year’s finals and all tests in the future will be easier.
The pressure is on as the year draws to a close, but remember one thing: it’s important to study, but don’t let studying be the only activity you do. As the saying goes, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.”
Work hard for the next two weeks, but be sure to make time to relax and enjoy the nice weather.
Keep these tips in mind and remember that in two weeks, all of your exams will be behind you.
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