Midterms are quickly approaching, and we all know how tough they can be, especially if you have multiple exams scheduled in one day. It’s important to know how to manage your time. Preparation also helps to reduce the effects of that added midterm stress. Here are five tips to help you prepare for midterms.
Keep your mind and body alert
Sleep and sustenance are key! Avoid junk food, alcohol and caffeine in the days before the test. These things take a physical toll on your stamina. Soda contains sugar that can affect your mood and stress level. Also be sure to get a decent amount of sleep, preferably 7 hours.
Plan ahead
Plan out how much time you will study each day. Break this time up. Set reasonable goals. If we are being real, it’s not possible to cover the entire course in one night. Make an exam study plan and write it down in your planner and try to stick with it.
Study in small doses
Studying in advance is a good thing, but planning to study for 6 hours on a Saturday will not only kill your fun plans, but it can also lead to you mentally burning out after only an hour or two. Divide your study time into small sections so that you can focus on the material. Do your best to understand and retain it and then give your brain a break.
Plan for discussion questions or essays
Create a working outline that highlights the key elements of the notes. Pick out some of the major ideas and themes. Most discussion questions will have 2-3 parts to answer. Decide what the main points could be and create supporting paragraphs. Writing these down is not only a great way to study, but it also helps you to remember during the test.
Form a study group
Study groups are a pretty big deal. They help you understand the material and break down the workload. They can also hold you accountable. If you can find several classmates with a similar work ethic and dedication, form a study group to help each other prepare for midterms or any other upcoming major assignments or exams for the course.
Lastly, pray on it. Claim a passing grade and if you know the material be confident and relax. Right before the test skim your notes just to re-familiarize yourself with the material. Good luck! You got this.