Avoid Being Stressed for Midterms: Here’s How.

Avoid Being Stressed for Midterms: Heres How.

Stressed about exams? No need to be anymore! These tips will help to prepare you for midterms.

1. Don’t stay up late studying the night before the exam.

Being well rested is imperative in order to retain the information as well as staying focused. A requisite number of hours for a proper night sleep is at least 8 hours.

2. Take notes in class when the teacher explains what materials are on the test.

Jotting down or typing on your computer what each test consists of is a great way to ensure that you will study the correct material.

3. Make a list of what to bring home for the weekend.

For each subject, write a list of what materials to bring home. It is helpful to bring home past tests and quizzes, class notes, homework, and the textbook.

4. Make a Quizlet or flashcards.

The best way to retain factual information is through the use of flashcards, either online or index cards. Although some scientific studies have proven that handwriting flashcards will help you retain the information over typing, go ahead and type it if that is the more efficient way.

5. Start studying several days in advance.

Because midterms involve recalling information from September until now, it would not only be tiring to start a day or two before but also inefficient. If one does cram everything in a day, that is arguably the least effective way to relearn everything. Yes, it does recite the material, but it does not allow you to learn it fully.

6. Study more than just the study guide.

This might seem tedious because study guides are customized for the test. However, going further than just what is on the study guide such as learning how they apply to the material will allow you to learn with a deeper understanding.

7. Take breaks when studying for long periods of time.

It is crucial to take several minutes to take a break when learning a wide variety of information. Continuous studying for a few hours is not effective at all. Taking breaks allows your brain to refresh and can actually help you focus and be more attentive. Therefore, it is helpful to study for 50 minutes and take a 10-minute break or study for 25 minutes and take a 5-minute break. Go get a Starbucks or walk your dog.

8. Prioritize time allotted to each subject.

You might find some exams not needing as much study time as others. Think about which subjects you find easier than others. Some people might find math the hardest, others might find science the hardest. Spend more time on the hardest subjects.

9. Take into consideration the format of the test.

For example, multiple choice tests usually involve definitions and concepts whereas essays focus on the general understanding of a topic.

10. Quiz others and have others quiz you.

Reciting the information before the exam will help you become more familiar with the material.

GOOD LUCK ON YOUR EXAMS!