Stags’ Study Habits

Midterm season can be stressful, but there are ways to manage it effectively without becoming overwhelmed. Here are a few tips to get you started!

1. Prioritize sleep: Although pulling all-nighters may be tempting while in the middle of studying, research actually shows that it can make it more difficult to concentrate and recall information. Make sure you get at least seven hours of sleep, allowing you to be more focused the next day. 
2. Review daily: Dedicate at least 15 minutes each day to go over what you learned in class. Taking the time to carefully complete your homework will help reinforce your understanding of the material. This way, you can avoid cramming all your studying into the night before the midterm.
3. Active recall: Instead of just reading your notes, practice active recall. Using flashcards, taking quizzes and telling the material to someone else will help you retain the information. By testing yourself, you will understand the material better than if you just read it over and over. My favorite study method is to make flashcards. As you are quizzing yourself, make sure to separate them. I usually organize my flashcards into three piles: one for information I know very well, another for things I am somewhat familiar with and a third for information I do not know very well yet. 
4. Pomodoro Technique: This technique uses timers to break work into intervals, separated by short breaks. Usually 25 minutes of focused studying followed by a five-minute break. After four pomodoros, take a longer break of about 15-30 minutes. You can also adjust the intervals, making them longer or shorter depending on what works best for you! The “punishment” of studying will be rewarded with a bit of free time, which allows you to feel productive.
5. Do Not Disturb: A useful trick is to set your phone to Do Not Disturb while you use the Pomodoro technique. By doing this, unnecessary distractions from Instagram, TikTok, FaceTime and text will not interrupt you, leading to a much smoother studying experience.
6. Healthy Snacking: Healthy snacks promote energy levels and stabilize your blood glucose. Blood glucose instability leads to irritability, anxiety, and low energy, which are all things to avoid while studying. Opt for snacks such as dark chocolate, greek yogurt, nuts and veggies to keep you energized and focused!
7. Study groups: Forming study groups allows you to discuss course material with your classmates. If you are unsure of a concept, chances are someone in the study group will understand and explain it to you. Collaborating helps reinforce your knowledge as you teach it to your peers. It can also make studying more enjoyable!
8. Stay active: Taking walks or doing a quick workout to clear your mind is essential! Personally, I enjoy taking study breaks by going to the RecPlex, running on the track or swimming in the pool. Exercise helps me process the information I just studied and allows me to focus.
9. Visualize success: The most important part of going into a midterm exam is visualizing yourself earning the A! Imagine yourself confidently answering questions and successfully completing the exam. This positive mindset will help to reduce anxiety, making it more likely that you will perform well. Believe in yourself!

I hope these tips serve you well, good luck studying!