As much as we don’t admit it, we all have that one class. The class where you can slack off. The one where homework isn’t graded or attendance isn’t counted. The one that is cast aside during a busy week. Well now, it’s midterms and we need to become experts fast.
1. Reference the Syllabus
Your syllabus is your class bible and it’s the key to acing your midterm. Scour it for information.
2. Read up on the test
Even if you haven’t slacked off, you should definitely do this. A low-weight midterm could put your mind at ease, but a high-weight deserves intensive studying. If you’re one of the lucky ones who gets a notecard, start preparing it (and practice tiny handwriting).
3. Evaluate Yourself
No, this isn’t an existential life crisis (yet). How long have you slacked off? What other responsibilities will determine how much studying you can accomplish? How is your relationship with your professor? How is your relationship with fellow classmates? These answers will dictate the rest of your preparations, so be honest with yourself.
4. Use All the Resources
They’re there for a reason, so you should use them. Even if your professor doesn’t provide pre-midterm resources, check out websites like Chegg, OneClass and even Quizlet for resources pertaining to your course. If you know an upper classman or a friend who has already finished the course, ask them for advice.
5. Set Up a Study Group
You’re not the only one bound for a midterm. You’re surrounded by fellow students who (hopefully) didn’t slack off and can help you out. Plus, it can be easier to learn in a peer-led environment where you feel less self-conscious to admit you barely know the name of the course.
6. Go to Tutoring/Office Hours
An obvious but effective choice. Your professors and TA’s probably know what you should know for the exam and office hours are the perfect time to work with them. Now, if the office hours aren’t for you (or didn’t get the job done), the Academic Success Center has tons of tutoring sessions and, if not, private tutors are certainly an option.
7. Relax
The night before don’t cram. I repeat don’t cram. You wouldn’t sprint all night and then expect to do well in a track meet the next morning. So, give your brain a well-deserved break and relax (Netflix and meditation are personal faves).
8. Believe in Yourself
Walk into that test with your head held high. You’ve got this. You put in the work and you’re ready to ace your midterm with no one the wiser that you’ve barely been to class.