Studying, memorizing and absorbing all the necessary information is key when preparing for final exams. As students we sometimes are irrational and will cram everything at the last minute and then freak out, which results in bad grades and a decline in our mental state.
There is a solution for the overwhelming process of studying which is to take it one step at a time. When it comes to preparing for quizzes, tests and even more lengthier exams we must practice and study. A couple things that have helped me in the past are certain tools, a change of scenery and the people I choose to study with.
The biggest resource I used, which I can call my best friend, for helping me pass my dreaded social sciences exams in high school was Quizlet. Quizlet is an application that helps you study in many forms. For example, Quizlet allows you to make flashcards and retain information fairly easily. There are five main features of the app which help you learn the information by writing, matching and testing it. By using this app, memorization became second nature and passing exams with key terms became my strong suit. It is superior to all tactics and ways of studying in my opinion.
When studying, the space you’re in impacts how you focus and retain information. Specifically for myself, I cannot for the life of me get any work done or study in the library. The quietness and concentration of everyone around me makes me feel uncomfortable and it’s hard to focus with the material in front of me. However, places like outside Mako Hall, outside flight deck and a secret spot by Rosenthal Student Center are places where the fresh air and subtle noise help me contrate. These places are the best areas to study, I have gotten so much work done and they are little nooks and crannies where I felt most comfortable and motivated.
I prefer outside Mako Hall because of the comfortable chairs and a nice atmosphere. Something I have also found myself preferring is to study in groups. Last semester, I was struggling in my math class, but I made a friend and both of us did homework together in the deli by the library. Doing homework together helped me remember certain tactics from collaborating with her. We also made a group chat with other people in our class and ended up going to the same SI sessions which tremendously changed my mindset when being in a troublesome math course.
Studying isn’t as difficult as one would expect. With the right tools, environment and motivation anything is possible. That being said, do not give up so easily and instead study and take things one step at a time, and while you’re at it reward yourself with a special treat. My go-to would be a Starbucks cake pop to celebrate my successes.
