I know how it works. You’re writing an essay on quantum physics and how it relates to Pride and Prejudice, or something along those liberal arts lines, and you find yourself on Facebook, stalking the photos of some guy you’ve never met. We’ve all been there (and it’s true, he does have great hair).
I’m not here to reiterate study tips that you have heard since the beginning of high school (e.g. that “start studying NOW” doesn’t mean cram the night before your exam), but here’s a list of quick tips and advice that I hope will make you feel a little more productive and relaxed during this midterm season.
1. God knows I procrastinate like no other, especially when I am stressed and have piles upon piles of work in front of me. But I’ve found that some types of procrastination are better than others. Next time you’re tempted to go on Facebook and send your friends a ridiculous cat video you found, watch a Ted Talks lecture (http://www.ted.com/talks) instead. These are quick clips of talks given by some of the most renowned voices of their fields. Not only is it a nice break away from studying, but you’ll also finish watching and feel a little more inspired to take on your mountain of work. Hey, it could be you up on that stage one day [so start by opening that textbook and learning the material].
2. Let’s be realistic – eight hours of sleep before your midterm exam is never going to happen. Come to terms with the fact that you are going to sacrifice a little bit of your beauty sleep this week, and find a morning routine that gets you energized. It could be as easy as spending thirty minutes at the gym to get your endorphins pumping before class, guzzling an energy drink (I highly recommend Amp – I can feel the chemicals in my veins after I drink it, but I swear it works), or watching fifteen minutes of your favorite show at breakfast (thank you iPhone Hulu+ and HBOGo apps!) – just do something that makes you feel ready to take on the day.
3. Download SelfControl to your computer. It blocks websites for any amount of time you designate (up to 24 hours at a time). This tool is a miracle in helping me cut back on the amount of time I waste surfing the web.
4. Find a song that gets you excited and ready to tackle your midterm exams. It could be an old-school classic, like “Let’s Get Down to Business” from Mulan, a new tune, such as “It’s a Beautiful Day” by Michael Buble, or even something you heard at a party a few weeks ago, like “Gold Digger.” Listen to it right before your test to get your head in the zone.
5. Strive for perfection, but keep realistic goals. I know you’re a perfectionist and want all A’s – I do too – but there isn’t enough time in the day to make everything perfect. Accept the fact that you will try your best, and that’s all that you can do. Don’t scold yourself for getting some sleep, taking time to eat, or ‘not working as hard as you could have.’ If you’re giving everything your best shot, it’s all that matters in the end. (My dad always says that twenty years from now, no one will care if I got a 95 on my Intro. to Biology exam or not… and I’ve got to admit, he has a valid point). Just do the best you can.