1. Find a quiet, comfortable place to do the work.
We’ve all been there– you have all the books and papers strewn about your bed but taking a nap sounds far too appealing and far too convenient. Grab a coffee, limit distractions and settle into a bright and calm space to tackle the work.
2. Organize
Get out that planner and start a to-do list, then decide when you’re going to tackle each item on the list. It’s usually not productive to do one subject for hours on end, so split up the work for each class on a few separate days leading up to the exam. Designate certain study times and material to cover and stick to your schedule.
3. Make a study plan
Break down each class’ study guide, and if your professor doesn’t give one, create your own with the class material. Tip: do the easier subjects/assignments first. That way, when you finally finish the more tedious ones you can relax without the stress of still having more to do.
4. Put your telephone AWAY!
Close the Facebook browser, turn notifications off for Twitter and don’t let Snapchats, Instagram alerts and text messages distract you from being your most focused– and most studious– self.
5. Get creative
Having tidy notes, color-coded systems, and overall visually appealing materials is going to make studying a bit more extensive, but the additional effort will help your brain absorb the information.
6. Don’t just copy and paste
Write things down! Studies show typing is not as beneficial when it comes to retention– and there is NOTHING worse than completely blanking in the middle of an exam. If you find yourself mindlessly completing the work and not being able to recall what you just read/wrote, you’re not benefitting from the study session.
7. Find unconventional material that covers the topics
YouTube has thousands of tutorial/informational videos on most subjects, and there are often interactive sites with quizzes and test-practice that offer an alternative to notes and powerpoints. Find what works best for you and your learning habits.