When I entered my first year of college, I quickly noticed how ineffective my study habits had been throughout high school. Now, as a college senior, I’ve had four years to perfect my study routine. Here are a few beneficial tips I have that can help you survive finals week!
- Make a List of Goals
Throughout each semester, I like to focus on each of my classes individually and outline all the necessary topics to learn. This way, the study subjects are not an overwhelming jumble of information. I find that this is an effective way to relieve some of the stress I have regarding cumulative exams.
- Create a Study Schedule
Over the course of my college career, I’ve noticed that the most helpful tool while studying is organization. Try to craft a rough schedule utilizing the topics you blocked out earlier. Giving a timeline for each topic is a great way to manage your time and remain efficient. It’s okay if you don’t follow it exactly; it’s just a great method to keep you on task!
- Study in Blocks of Time
The best way to block out periods of studying is to do it over the course of a few days. This means studying for a few hours every day, rather than condensing a week’s worth of information into one day. Because I know this is sometimes unrealistic, blocking out specific amounts of time within a day can also be a great substitute. By not studying endlessly for hours, you’ll be able to avoid burnout.
- Take Breaks
Going along with the next tip, it’s important to take a break to refresh your brain. Cramming in information atop more information only harms the knowledge going into your brain. This is not only tiring, but also impractical. Whether it be five minutes or half an hour, your brain will thank you.
- Take Care of Your Body
Along with taking breaks, you need to make sure to eat and stay hydrated. Under the stress of studying, it’s easy to forget to eat food and drink water. Not taking time to do so can really harm your work ethic. Getting some food and water inside you will make a difference in your energy levels by adding nourishment to your body and mind.
All in all, studying can be an incredibly draining experience, but with these tips, the stress can be manageable. Remember to take care of your body and prioritize your mental health. Good luck (not that you’ll need it)!