It’s my first time studying for midterms and I’m already fed up. How is it possible that already more than a month has passed since the semester has started? The libraries are packed with people and the wifi is weak, so here are six tips for you on how to stay motivated when you’re studying for your midterms. You got this!
1. Have good playlists
As Dominique said in her article not everyone likes to listen to music while studying, but if you do try to choose a playlist that really fits you. One you don’t have to skip a lot of songs and that doesn’t distract you from studying. Music really motivates me, it gives me a soundtrack to my endless repetitions of the same theories.
2. Study with a view
People who know me, know that I love studying on the 5th floor. To take breaks and look at the colored trees, the buildings, birds flying by or just at cars driving is really relaxing for me. I can take tiny breaks and think about something else and then dive back into studying complicated theories.
3. Meet friends
For lunch, a coffee break or just to complain about how stressed you are. It is so nice to have a little chat and think about something else as well. How about doing a short walk around the arboretum together? Getting fresh air, moving your body and talking to someone you like sounds like the best break ever to me!
4. Prepare delicious food
Make yourself little boxes full of delicious snacks. How about a little vitamin box with chopped veggies & fruits? A box with nuts? And a tasty lunch? You will have something to look forward to and be more motivated to study until lunch or until an afternoon break.
5. Make lists to feel more accomplished
To know what my plan is for a stressful study day I always make little lists. I try to break it down to little, manageable tasks such as “reread chapter 5” or “learn theory x by heart”. Through that I’m able to go from point to point quicker and check those points and feel really accomplished and also that I’m coming further with my studies.
6. Make plans during the evening / weekends
When I’m studying, I have a tendency to say no to all invitations. I’m so busy thinking about my exams, so overwhelmed with what I have to learn and until when, that I forget to do other things. But I realized that meeting friends, going to a movie or having dinner actually makes me more motivated when I’m studying. I have a reason to study extra efficient, because I have to leave the library at 7pm and don’t have time until 11pm or whatever.
Probably the best motivation is that’s going to be over soon. It’s just a matter of getting through it, getting enough sleep, hydration and concentration. Remember you got this. You have already passed endless exams, and those midterms are just a few more on that list. Believe in yourself.