As the semester is drawing to a close, I would like to share some advice on how to make the next few weeks feel lighter. While studying methods are a go-to in terms of final preparations, it’s equally, if not more, important to take care of your physical and mental well-being; all aspects must work hand-in-hand to deliver positive results while keeping stress levels low. In fact, I practice most of these behaviors on a daily basis to ensure a strong work-life balance. Here’s how to walk in and out of your exams with confidence!
Studying is only as effective as you make it; exams become anxiety-provoking when the preparation strategy is ineffective. It’s important to note that what works best for you may not work at all for someone else; everyone processes information very differently. So, I have compiled a list of study methods that have worked best for me throughout my academic career.
- The Pomodoro Technique
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The Pomodoro Technique breaks down studying into 25-minute intervals with five-minute breaks. This cycle is repeated four times, and then you take a 15-30 minute break. If you struggle with focusing on one task for a long period of time, or if you want to make the time go by faster, this method is great for you. As it improves focus and helps to manage distractions, I always return to the Pomodoro Technique when I feel anxious about an upcoming assessment.
- Active Recall
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I typically start reviewing exam content at least a week before an assessment. Once I have established a basic foundation, I practice active recall to improve long-term retention of information by creating a list of key terms and concepts while connecting relevant information to each one.
- Teaching
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I believe that if you can’t teach something, you don’t truly understand it.
Applying textbook knowledge to your own words prepares you for any question on the exam. In addition, teaching is an efficient way to highlight areas in need of improvement. If you are unable to speak on a particular topic or answer a certain question, make sure to spend more time on those applied concepts.
In stressful times, such as final exams, it is easy for anxiety to spiral; your life may feel like it revolves around an upcoming assessment, which can manifest into burnout or procrastination. More often than not, the energy you carry in preparation for an exam is also present during testing. As mentioned above, prioritizing physical and mental health is crucial. Feeling your best often enables you to do your best.
- Physical Activity (Yoga)
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Physical exercise — of any kind — is beneficial in countless ways. Most specifically, it triggers the release of endorphins, dramatically reduces stress levels, and improves overall mood. Since I started practicing yoga, I have learned about how the body can carry trauma in certain joints, muscles, and ligaments. When exercise grounds you, it prepares your body and brain for what’s next.
- Eight Hours
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Achieving eight hours of sleep every night ensures that you complete multiple sleep cycles and get sufficient Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. As it relates to exam preparation, REM sleep is crucial for learning and memory consolidation. It is common for sleep quality to be sacrificed for more time studying, especially if you started preparation later than you had hoped. While this strategy can be effective, it only makes it harder for you in the long run.
- Organize Your Thoughts
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As a type A person, I love making lists, journaling, and scheduling my day; I practice these habits daily as they bring me peace. Especially during finals season, organizing responsibilities, priorities, and emotions is essential to managing stress before it has the chance to fester.
- Prioritizing Nutrition and Hydration
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Have you heard the saying, “You are what you eat”? Its truth comes from the fact that your body will tell on you if its nutritional and mineral needs are not being met; they will manifest into noticeable physical and cognitive changes. Fueling and hydrating well directly supports your overall functioning.
At the end of the day, academic success is the product of both preparation and personal well-being. When you prioritize your health, your focus and productivity follow. Take things one step at a time, and remember that balance — not burnout — is what carries you through.
Set yourself up right, and make it easier on yourself.
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