How to Study for Final Exams
As you all know, finals week is quickly approaching. While studying for your upcoming exams, consider how you learn best. Need some extra tips? Check out some of these helpful hints.
Re-write your notes pretending that they’re intended for someone else. It will make you think about concepts in a new way and help you to simplify things. Its also best to write by hand, as the movement will require more thought.
Exercise can help you focus and stay alert, so take quick breaks to walk around or do some jumping-jacks or planks when you feel frustrated.
Try out a new environment. Though you may feel most comfortable in the library or your desk at home, a new place will keep you motivated.
Don’t pull all-nighters if you can avoid it. Your brain forms memories best when it gets a bit of a rest, and you’ll be able to concentrate better after some sleep, too.
Block websites that might distract you. If you know you’re procrastinating by browsing Facebook or Netflix, you can download a free app to temporarily prevent access to these sites and encourage you to focus.
Speak aloud! Though you may not want to try this in the library while others are attempting to study in silence, studies have proven that reading things aloud helps you retain that information. Try reading from your notes at first, then see what you can remember and say it out loud without any assistance.
Silence or unfamiliar, soft music is the best when studying. Anything that is familiar and poppin’ is more likely to hurt you than help you when trying to study. Try gentle electronic music or classical composers.
Chewing gum is supposed to boost mental performance! Mint will help you stay alert, but why not try a variety of flavors to keep things interesting?
Lights on! Keep the environment where you’re studying bright. If you’re in a dark area and are covering material that isn’t terribly enthralling, you’ll be tempted to nap or daydream. Help your body know its go-time by keeping a bright room.
Relax. Finals week is stressful, but allowing that anxiety to follow you into your examination will distract you and keep you from concentrating. When you receive your test, close your eyes and take some deep breaths until you feel calm and ready to begin. Then go for it - you got this!
How do you like to study? What works best for you? Share your tips with us! We would love to pass them along to other PCC students as the end of the semester approaches.
Good luck, Lancers! You got this!
