Guest Blogger – Carolee Followill, National Academics Chairman
You've gone to class, taken notes, learned all kinds of interesting things and you're almost finished. Now is the time to prioritize your schedule and efforts to achieve your best outcome. You may have several tests and projects due in the next few weeks. Use your time wisely to prepare. Here are some tips to help maximize your success in studying.
Look at your class syllabi to check for pertinent information. Be sure the dates, times and locations of your finals are correct and make sure to list in your planner.
Study early and often, start at least a few weeks out. Don't wait until the last minute! Prioritize what you need to study and when. Some finals carry more weight than others, some subjects are easier for you than others and some subjects may need more effort in order to improve your grade. Take these things into consideration as you schedule your time.
Gather and organize all materials, notes, handouts, texts and assignments from class. Review your old tests, finding the answers to any questions you missed in the past. Answer study questions in the textbook. Try writing in black ink and highlighting in yellow. Studies have shown yellow and red are stimulating colors and may help you remember what you have read. Focus on concepts, definitions and formulas you think may be on the test.
Know what format the exam will take. Is it comprehensive or not, discussion questions, short answer or multiple choice? Does it cover lectures only? Many people study too much of the wrong information. If you've been to class and listened to the professor you should be able to anticipate what's going to be on the final.
Take advantage of study sessions offered by your professor. Study with a group, ask each other questions and talk about the important points. If you have questions, don't be afraid to talk to your professor.
As you head into your finals, be sure to continue to eat a balanced diet and get plenty of rest and exercise. Feel like you've looked at the same information a hundred times and you just can't think anymore? It's time to take a break, in fact you should take a short break every hour or two. Walk around the block, get some fresh air, do something different. It is OK, and perhaps preferable, to study more than one subject in a study session. The change of material will refresh your mind. Never stay up all night cramming for a final, get at least several hours of sleep.
On the day of the exam, be sure you are prepared. Do you have pens, pencils, calculators and any needed supplies? Be sure you have extras. Get to the exam location early and look over your notes one last time. Have a positive attitude. If you think you will do well, you are more likely to succeed.
Read the directions first! You don't have to go through the test from beginning to end. Go through the test and answer everything you're well prepared for and can do quickly and easily. Then you can turn your attention to the questions and problems that you really need to think about. Read each question carefully. Stay calm, pace yourself and take deep breaths to help yourself remember. When you are taking your test and don't know an answer, skip it and come back later; you may be surprised to find the answer later in the test. If you are not sure about an answer, go with your first thought, it is usually correct. If you don't know a multiple choice answer, delete those choices you know are incorrect. Always answer any bonus questions. Answer all questions as completely as you can. Watch your time and check your answers before turning in your exam
Everyone learns differently, so do what is most effective for you. Don't study hard, study smart!
Visit the following sites for additional resources:
Campus View - A few pointers to tweak your study habits http://www.collegeview.com/articles/CV/campuslife/youre_not_in_hs.html
How to take on College Studying http://www.collegeboard.com/student/plan/college-success/961.html
Success in College http://speakerjimmy.wordpress.com/blog/
How to Study http://www.how-to-study.com
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