Author | Izzie Parsons |
It’s the time of year when everyone’s excited for Thanksgiving, cooler weather,
Christmas, long breaks, and of course, (everybody’s favorite!) midterms. Don’t let the stress, the dread, and the nerves get to you though! I’m here to offer 5 tips to help you in preparing and tackling those midterms, so you can enter the holiday season knowing you gave it your absolute best.
Tip #1 - Prepare in Advance
Nothing is more stressful than cram studying 24 hours before the test! Instead of taking
the path of procrastination, begin to prepare in advance. The last week or two leading up to your midterms, set aside time each day to spend brushing up on topics you both learned recently and those you learned at the beginning of the school year to refresh your memory and knowledge of them. Doing it over the course of a few weeks will better help you remember and retain that knowledge, rather than cramming it all in during the days leading up to the test.
Tip #2 - Mini Goals
Having endless study guides, papers, notes, and textbooks laid out before you can seem daunting! Here’s how I like to break up the bulk: I tell myself “Ok, I'm going to study for (set a time frame) and then I’m going to take a 10 minute break. Work for another ( ____ minutes) then take another 10 minute break.” Dividing your studying up makes it seem a lot more achievable, and you begin to really work hard and look forward to those few minutes of “freedom.”
Tip #3 - Get Your ZZZs!
The night before your midterms, go to bed early. Like, early early. Studies recommend at
least 8 hours of good sleep any night before a big exam. Avoid any caffeine in the afternoon that might keep you up, eat a big, healthy dinner, then hit the hay.
Tip #4 - Avoid Distractions
When studying and preparing for your midterms, try to eliminate as many distractions as
you can. Put away the phone, turn off the TV, and dedicate that time to studying, and studying alone. When your mind is distracted, you’ll have a hearing time retaining the knowledge at hand.
Tip #5 - Study with Someone - Student or Teacher
Connecting with a partner who is taking the same class as you and then spending time
reviewing material together can really help cement that knowledge in your brain. Discuss what you’re having trouble with, and see if they have any help or tips to offer.
Also, if your teacher is offering extra help sessions, take advantage of those! Now is the
time to ask any questions or get help on what you're struggling with. Your teachers are more
than willing to help, you only have to ask.
I hope these help you establish a good studying plan and habit for your midterm! With
preparation, perseverance, and priority, you’re sure to ace these tests.