Study Hacks

Picture from Wikimedia commons. Photographer: qperello, Alberto G

Hand+completing+a+multiple+choice+exam.

Bluestocking

Hand completing a multiple choice exam.

Final exams are coming up soon and here are some of the best ways to study.

1. Do some research

Ask as many questions as you can–find out how many multiple choice questions there are and short answers.
Know your strengths and weaknesses which may help you know what material you need to study more.

2. Ask for help

Honestly, don’t be embarrassed to ask for help. Teachers or friends can be a great way to study and clarify certain material.

3. Fill out all study guides and look at previous tests and HW

Don’t just ask someone else for their study guide. Filling out a study guide will make it easier to remember the information. Also, most teachers use questions from previous tests, so remember to review questions that you might have missed on previous tests, quizzes, or HW.

4. Don’t cram!

Cramming is just stressful and you are less likely to remember the information. Just don’t do it!

5. Keep your cool

If you know the information, don’t freak out. Be confident and don’t second-guess yourself. Most of the time, your first guess will be correct.

6. Break down the questions

Always remember to read the entire question. Try to understand the different parts of a question and always ask the teacher to clarify if you are having trouble with the wording.

7. Look for strategies

Ask around-ask your friends what strategies they use to study. Even ask your teachers if they have quick short cuts to remember certain material.

Study hacks…
1. It is proven that exercise can actually improve your brain function before a test. Try to walk around and get rid of any nervous energy you might have.
2. Try to whisper the question out loud. When you just read, you might miss key information.
3. Give a treat to yourself when you study. This tactic is a great motivator. Even for after the test, make something or plan something to look forward to because it will help you stay focused and motivated during the exam. McDonald’s Flurry anyone?
4. Another great way to study is to teach yourself the information. Speak out loud what you have learned to youself or someone else, which can help correct your thought process or just build upon your current knowledge.
5. Watch videos on topics. For some people, it is hard to visualize the information, so watching videos or demonstrations can help you connect or deepen your understanding.
6. Try to take regular study breaks. Don’t over do it and everyone needs break once and a while.
7. Lastly, try listening to music as long as it doesn’t distract you. Music can get you excited and motivated to study.

Below is a “final-grade-calculator.” This is an easy way to set some expectations on what you need to get on your final exam.

http://rogerhub.com/final-grade-calculator/