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With exam season just around the corner, it’s time to start studying. Although we all have different study methods that work better for us, here are some general tips on how to prepare for these big exams!
1. Find a study space and make it your own
You may have realized that you get more work done in some places than in others; for example, maybe you’re more productive in the library than you are at home. Although these preferences vary between people, it’s important to set a routine. Many professionals recommend that you study in the same place all the time, which helps reduce distractions and ensures that you are in a location where you’ll be comfortable and productive.
2. Organize study groups with friends and classmates
According to Oxford Learning, there are three main benefits of studying in groups. Firstly, as you’ve probably heard from your teachers, an excellent way to ensure you understand a concept is making sure that you can explain it to someone else. Studying in group environments helps you test that. Secondly, it will allow you to clarify any questions, as the people in your study group will be keen to help and may also gain a deeper understanding from such questions. Lastly, study groups motivate you to study and hold you accountable for getting work done. You will derive energy and motivation from the group members, and it may make it something enjoyable. As beneficial as study groups are, if they are too talkative or your level of understanding is substantially different than that of the other members, you may have to reconsider this option.
3. Plan out your studying
There are many ways you can plan out your studying, from to-do lists to calendars and checklists. Whatever option suits you best, having a plan will not only ensure that you are studying all the material you need to know, but it will also provide you with a structured approach to studying. Dr. David Cohen, a Psychologist, and author, shared that to-do lists are great for studying as they; reduce anxiety about everything we need to do, they give us a structure and plan that we can follow, and can be proof of what we achieve in a day, which for some may be motivating. When you’re planning, make sure you are giving yourself breaks; having shorter studying sessions with lots of breaks allows you to retain more information and stay more focused on the work at hand (UNC Learning Center).
4. Become the teacher
A study from Applied Cognitive Psychology and several other studies share that learning by teaching others is a great tool to measure your understanding of concepts and retain the information. Whether you are teaching it to a classmate, a sibling, or your pet, acting as a teacher and sharing your knowledge will someone will test your current knowledge and force you to understand the concepts in greater depth. It’s a great way to ensure that you know everything you need to know and prepare for exams.
5. Power your brain with brain-foods
Nutrition may not seem that important for studying, but in reality, some foods can boost your cognitive abilities, promote focus and give you extra energy. For example, eggs are a great source of nutrients, but they have essential nutrients that help regulate memory, and they are also packed with tryptophan, an amino acid that helps build serotonin, so they can increase your happiness in stressful times. Popcorn and oatmeal alike help increase blood flow which will enhance brain memory and power up your brain cells. It’s important to know what you eating and ensure that you are giving yourself enough nutrients to successfully study!
No one studies the same way and we all have different study habits that make us successful, but some changes to your study habits to make them more effective can go a long way. Finding your routine will reduce stress and make sure that you are ready for exam season!
