Conquering Comps

For some of us comprehensive exams are a thing of the past, but for others comps are on the horizon.

Here are some helpful tips. 

1. Sleep 

2. Eating Habits 

Stress makes us do crazy things.  Sometimes we forget to eat, or binge eat junk food; neither are healthy. Make sure you’re eating three meals a day and incorporating fruits and vegetables. 

But sometimes you do deserve to treat yo self. (See #6)

3. Study Location 

Mix it up! Studies show that you are more likely to remember information if you rotate study location. 

4. Study Groups 

Know when to collaborate and when to isolate yourself. Study groups are great for splitting up work and reviewing, but they can definitely be distracting.  Balance your time between individual and group study sessions.  

5. H2O 

Remember to hydrate! The tendency is to consume massive amounts of coffee and energy drinks, but your body needs water.  You should be drinking around eight ounces a day.

6. Treat Yo Self

You’re working hard and deserve to reward yourself. Set goals for your study sessions and treat yourself with Ben & Jerry’s when you’re finished. Using a reward system will motivate you to get things done.  

7. Ready? Break!

Just like taking time to sleep, it’s important to take breaks. Study for a few hours and then get &pizza or go to an on campus event. “You” time is still important, especially for your sanity.  

8. Exercise

Whether it’s taking a walk around your apartment or hitting the gym, exercise is a great way to relieve stress. It helps process information and keeps you from being too sedentary. 

9. Positive Affirmations

Don’t underestimate the power of positive thinking! The night before you take comps, write out some positive affirmations like, “I am smart & I will pass comps.” Also, practice the superman pose in the mirror. It may feel silly, but studies show that this “power pose” can boost confidence. For more on the power pose, check out this TED Talk. 

10. Waiting for results

• comps
• cua
• Exam