THE STUDENT LIFE CYCLE: Studying For Midterms
Well, here we are! A little over one month into school, just over a week past Thanksgiving, and for many of us it already feels like we’ve been locked in forever. Summer is a fast-fading distant memory as we familiarize ourselves with the nooks and crannies of Robarts and bury our heads in readings and assignments, with a generous helping of caffeine to power through the increasingly difficult days. As we enter into midterm season, things can become just a bit too strenuous, especially if you’re in first year. Therefore, below is a quick and easy list of tips for studying from a website called Top Universities. You can access the complete list here
I have also included some notes from my own experience to help ground the tips.
1. Give yourself enough time to study
This is such a crucial piece of the puzzle when it comes to academic success. Coming into UofT I was told (probably as many of you were), that studying doesn’t begin two weeks before tests and/or exams, it is a semester long exercise. We should be reviewing our notes regularly to make sure that we are retaining all the relevant information. This can be incredibly difficult with 3-5 courses being taken at a time, but thankfully, with practice I’ve gotten better at it and so will you! A little bit of review each day goes a long way come assessment time.
2. Organize your study space
I usually study at home by my kitchen table because it’s completely empty before and after meals. The kitchen at my house is a bright and spacious area with plenty of windows allowing for natural light and a gorgeous view of my backyard and the trees behind my home. The lack of clutter and beauty helps me to zone in to my work and have a positive attitude as I’m working. Where’s your “kitchen table”?
3. Organize study groups with friends
Robarts Study Rooms! Gerstein Study Rooms! Kelly Library Study Rooms! Most of the libraries on campus have study rooms that students can book in advance and they are there to facilitate study groups. By now days and slots will have started to fill up fast so click here to get started on booking a room for you and your friends.
4. Take regular breaks
Netflix. Luke Cage. Need I say more?
Daniel Peel