Wednesday, September 30, 2015

What-to-Know Wednesday : Surviving the Study-Stage of an Exam

Hello all!

No, I can't believe it either...but for many of us here at St. Mike's, exams have already started to roll in. This mostly involves science majors, who usually have several exams per semester in addition to the standard midterm and final. But of course, there's always an exception here or there.

For example, I've got my first Honors Art History exam today! I've been preparing for the past couple of weeks or so, which we all know is a stressful process. But thankfully, with adequate preparation, organization, and a positive mindset, you have the ability to make the study-stage of exams much less daunting! Clue yourself in below!


1.) Identify your preferred study tactic(s).


For me, it's flashcards. Through my many years of high school tests, I found that it's just what happens to work for me. For you, it could be anything from typing out a detailed study guide to simply flipping through your textbook.

If you haven't already, find the tactic that works for you, whatever it may be. This could involve a few test runs before some smaller-scale quizzes, but it'll be well worth the trial and error once you crack the code!


2.) Prepare your study materials ahead of time.

Whether you're making flashcards, printing out maps, or typing up a study guide, do yourself a favor and get those ready at least 1-2 weeks before your exam date.

This will give you all the time you need to actually study your study materials before the exam. Don't wait. You don't want to spend all that valuable time you could be studying on getting ready to study.


3.) Find the perfect study spot and get to it!


Sometimes the hardest part of studying for an exam is actually starting. But usually, once I start, I realize I know a lot more than I thought.

So track down your favorite room in the library/academic buildings, bite the bullet, and get studying!


4.) Take a break!

You're only human...and once you get burnt out from a couple hours of drilling vocab, trying to study through the fog won't do you much good.

Whether you're grabbing a bite to eat, taking a walk outside, or even indulging in a quick power-nap, breaking throughout the process is just as important as the studying itself. So go ahead and push pause...just make sure you get back to studying after!


5.) Take care of yourself.

Getting plenty of sleep, eating well, and exercising will not only keep you healthy for exam day, but taking these steps to stay well will also ensure that you're alert and chipper through the study process.

Don't forget plenty of H2O on your trips to the library!

Do all of the above, and you'll be well on your way to a successful exam!

How do you typically study for an exam? What could you do to improve that routine?

Good luck everyone, and stay tuned for the next Sum-It-Up Sunday on the 4th!




Let's Connect!
Instagram: @claire_cavanaugh
Twitter: @CavanaughClaire
E-mail: ccavanaugh2@mail.smcvt.edu

No comments: