It’s midterms season again, and students are scrambling to prepare for dreaded exams. However stressful midterms might be, with the right strategies and preparation, you can certainly survive it well and perhaps even get that A! Here are some tips from Jelli Tech on how to stay focused and productive during midterms:
Plan ahead
One of the biggest mistakes that you can make is trying to learn an entire semester’s worth of lessons (or half a semester’s, for that matter) the night before an exam. Instead of cramming, manage your time well and start preparing now. Whether it’s spaced repetition or other methods, review and practice consistently to decrease stress and anxiety and keep your mind sharp.
Have a schedule
A concrete study plan is essential for keeping yourself on track. While the general rule is to start with challenging subjects, if getting easier subjects out of the way works better for you, then do so! Just make sure to allot enough time for each subject so you don’t neglect any topics. Also, remember to check your exam schedule in advance!
Make studying fun
Studying doesn’t have to be a terrible experience. Keep yourself engaged and motivated by changing up your environment, working with a study group, or quizzing yourself with friends. Rewarding yourself with your favorite food or drink can also make studying feel less draining. Aside from this, creating a study playlist can lessen boredom and help you focus.
Study smarter, not harder
Not all subjects are built the same, so different types of exams may need different kinds of preparation. Don’t simply reread your notes—make it more interactive by answering practice questions, explaining concepts to others, and using flashcards to reinforce what you’ve learned. If you’re struggling with a subject, don’t hesitate to ask for help and request a consultation with your professor.
Take care of yourself
Even during midterms, your health should still be the number one priority. Having enough sleep and hydration, eating healthy, and working out will not only give you the fuel to be productive, it will also help you retain more information and stabilize your mood. Take regular breaks from studying as well to just breathe and relax, preventing burnout. If you’re going outside or studying with others, wear the Jelli M1 mask to be protected from pollutants and keep yourself healthy. Nothing’s worse than being sick during exam season!
Above all else, trust in the time and effort you’ve put into preparing for your midterms. You got this, Jellifam!
Cover photo by Matt Ragland on Unsplash