We have officially reached the midterm season we so often dread. It feels as though school has just begun and we are already being tested on such significant amounts of material. Studying for multiple exams at once is no small task, on top of the assignments and homework that is also expected of us. Crammed brains, lack of sleep and lots of nerves – how hard can it be?
It is certainly not easy to tackle this topic all at once, but today I am going to give you some tips on how to best manage your stress! The important thing to keep in mind is that every student is in the same boat, so don’t beat yourself up if you are feeling overwhelmed. Have a positive outlook and try your best. When panic sets in it can be difficult to study productively, so let me help!
This first tip always helps me remain focussed in times of chaos. Find a change of scenery! Personally, studying in my room comes with far too many distractions and I can get a lot more work done in a quiet, public space. My favourite places to visit are local cafes or one of the libraries on campus. If studying at home works best for you, then that is terrific! If you begin to feel bored after a few long hours, you may want to get out and go for a walk to refresh your mind.
With multiple exams approaching, making to-do lists can help you keep track of your priorities. Work away at the tasks that need to be completed first, then you can relax and attend to the rest of your to-dos. I love using planners to organize my due dates. You can take note of when assignments or exams are coming up, when to start studying and which course needs your attention first.
Remember, you are not alone! Dalhousie offers same-day counselling if you feel like you need to chat with someone. Talking about how you’re feeling can relieve so much stress and a counsellor can suggest some strategies to help you manage your everyday life. Students are always under a lot of pressure and there is so much expected of us. It’s okay to feel as though you can’t handle it all on your own. You can easily book an appointment with a counsellor via dal.ca or by phoning 902-494-2171.
Take care of your mind! Your brain needs you just as much as you need your brain for exams. The best studying is done with a good night’s rest and a healthy eating schedule. Feed your body so that you are well energized and are as prepared as can be for a productive day of studying.
If you are not feeling confident about a midterm, reach out to a professor or your classmates for some assistance. Your professor can talk you through what the exam is going to look like, while a classmate may be able to clarify whatever it is you are struggling with. Studying with a classmate or bouncing ideas off one another can really help in ensuring you’ve got everything covered.
I don’t know about you, but my biggest distraction when studying is my phone. Put that phone away so that you don’t waste any time. Feeling rushed to study is never amusing and you want to give yourself enough time to prepare for an exam. The temptation to pick up your phone for every small notification is real, but you can fight it.
Don’t doubt yourself! Going into an exam with a mindset that you are not going to do very well will not work to your advantage. Stay positive because you deserve to do well and you have worked hard to get here! Exams can be nerve-wracking but at the end of the day, they are not going to make or break you.