Do you have a midterm coming up and not sure how to study effectively? I know that feeling all too well—feeling like a nervous wreck with absolutely no motivation. It can be daunting figuring out how to transform this stress into productive energy. As a college junior, I will share 10 techniques that have helped me study well, so you can ace those midterms!Â
1. Show Some Self-Love
Self-love is a way to give back to yourself while working hard. Here are a few ways I recommend:
- I begin each study session with a positive affirmation: “I am going to do my best today” and remember this between tasks.Â
- When I feel overwhelmed or upset, I take a step back from my computer or textbook for a couple of minutes before returning.
- Â I personally try to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Setting aside at least 30 minutes for meal times is essential!Â
I feel like working on an empty stomach can prevent concentration and affect my mood. If you are studying during the day, I recommend dedicating a lunch break and meal time increments like 1 pm to 1:30 pm. During this time moving away from your study space and fueling your brain with food is key!
2. Organize a Schedule and Keep Track of Deadlines
There is no “right” way to get organized, but figuring out what helps you stay on top of your work is key. Here are a couple of ways I keep organized:
- Using a physical calendar.Â
Having one of these calendars helps you see the big picture of when deadlines are coming. Write out these deadlines and bullet point daily tasks that you are going to accomplish each day beforehand.  Â
- Using Notes and Reminders app!Â
The notes app is a lifesaver when you are on the go on campus or in the middle of class but do not have a sheet of paper on you.Â
Say it is Monday and you have an exam coming next Wednesday, I recommend immediately going on your Reminders app and making daily reminders throughout the week to warn yourself and to remind you to study!Â
3.) Listen to Audio to Help You Focus During Studying
Whether you use Apple Music, Spotify or if you love Youtube as much as I do–there are a million things to listen to at your disposal.Â
- Need help with relaxing? I recommend listening to your favorite artist. My go-to is Lana Del Rey’s NFRÂ album.
- Need something to help you focus? I think classical violin or piano is a must.Â
- Feeling tired during a late night session? I run to EDM, rap or pop for that energy!Â
4.) Mix Up Your Surroundings While Studying
After a while, studying in your dorm room or house can become stuffy. Consider these questions to switch up your surroundings:
- Are you best working alone or with others?
Perhaps invite a couple of your friends over to study (although be wary of procrastination!). My favorite thing is finding a picnic table or place on the lawn to study.Â
- Do you like working in quiet or bustling environments?Â
I recommend the library or open computer lab if you need a quieter space. For more bustling areas, I would recommend checking out a local bakery like SloDoCo and settle in with a computer!Â
5.) Use Solid Study Materials
- Find a “go-to” black or blue ink pen that you like to use to copy down notes.Â
Finding a great pen has helped me write for long periods of time while studying and it is much easier referring back to notes that will not smudge like pencil ink.Â
- Use a set of colored markers.
I have found that while doing math homework writing in different colors eases the anxiety of looking at scratch work and overall makes the numbers appear approachable. Â
- Notecards
Notecards have helped memorize terms and they are super easy to slip into a purse or backpack to study on the go.Â
6.) Refer and Check the Syllabus!Â
Using the syllabus as a roadmap for your studying is so important for prepping and performance on the test.Â
- Find out how much the midterm is worth as an overall grade.
- Find out if the exam is open or closed book.
- Find out which chapters you will be tested on.
7.) Sign Up for Tutoring
 If you are already struggling with the class and pepping for the midterm, seeing a tutor has always helped me see my mistakes. Tutors are also a great resource because:Â
- On-campus tutors are usually available for free!
- Tutors are usually students that have taken the same class or had the same professor.
- Tutors want to see you succeed and they can walk you through concepts.
8.) Enhance Your Studying with AI
AI has helped me with studying by relaying concepts and breaking down textbook chapters. AI does not always give correct information, so it is best to always double check all answers with other sources!
If you had to know what the U.S. Supreme Court was for an exam, type in Chat GPT your current knowledge about the Supreme Court and see from Chat GPT if you are forgetting details:
- For example I type in: “I have to know what the U.S Supreme Court is for class. I think this is the nation’s highest court with nine Justices.”
9.) Call Your Friends and Family for Support
Moving away from home has personally impacted me and my ability to feel confident. No matter how far away you are from home, tell your friends or family what’s going on.
- If you’re feeling down, leaning on others for support can help you look at tough situations from a different perspective.Â
10.) Set a Goal to Reward Yourself After
Looking forward to something after completing a difficult exam has helped me ease my anxiety while studying. It is important to let yourself feel proud of your accomplishments. Set up a friend’s night out or plan to drive over to McDonald’s and get yourself a McFlurry after the exam to celebrate!Â
Good Luck with Your Midterms!Â
I wish you an awesome midterm season! Throughout my time at college, I feel that I am always trying new study methods like these to better my focus. Whether you decide to use these tips or become inspired to create your own; I hope my study techniques help guide you in the right direction! Â