Top Tips When Studying For Finals
A Listicle by Kate Noel
A Listicle by Kate Noel
As a junior in high school I’ve felt the dread when finals are rapidly approaching. It feels like every class is doing review all at once and there’s no way to devote enough attention to each course of study. Or it can feel like you aren’t doing enough during the school day and you're left to try and find time in your own schedule to study. I’ve taken a minute from my own studying to compile a list of tips I’ve learned throughout the years.
We’ve all heard the phrase “one day at a time”, but this can really make a difference in your productivity and your stress levels. Writing down your assignments during the week can help you visualize exactly what you need to do - at the same time it can remove the constant stress of trying to remember all the different things you need to do - jot it down and free up some brain space. Also, you get the added benefit of crossing off each assignment when you finish and watch your responsibilities wither away. This method helps you to organize and manage the time you can study outside of class..
This quiet time has made all the difference for me. As someone who gets distracted easily, doing my work outside of the house has made focusing easier and contributes heavily to my productivity level. Having the independence of being a licensed driver is a plus when it comes to this tip. I feel in control of my study habits and it helps me to stay concentrated.If possible - you may want to consider checking out entirely new surroundings by heading to a nearby library branch in a different town.
A lot of kids my age always have headphones on them and find it easier to focus when they have music; myself included. However, research does prove that it is much easier to concentrate on reading and writing when the music doesn’t have lyrics. If there are tangible words my conscience can cling to my focus goes out the window. If you have the same problem I recommend a lo-fi playlist or classical music- anything instrumental. Often times there are livestreams on Youtube that offer 24/7 streams of lyric-less music.
Sometimes you need a little extra motivation and you’re easily bored when studying. I understand. Bear with me on this one- pomodoro is a genre of videos of someone studying in set time intervals. A friend of mine recommended the pomodoro study technique to me and it really works. There’s a level of motivation that comes from watching someone study with you that just clicks and resonates with me. Even getting distracted by the video and watching them stay focused can help me get back on track. Having a friend study with you can be distracting because of the dialogue that occurs. Pomodoro is meant to be one-sided to assist with your alertness.
You’ve heard of brain food, and I’m here to tell you it works. Specifically, crunchy foods. There’s something about that crunchiness that makes me focus so much better. Cucumber, carrots, goldfish- anything healthy-ish with a satisfying crunch will do.
A lot of teachers have Youtube channels that curate videos geared towards certain topics. Take Mr. Krause for example; just about any topic you’re struggling with, there is a teacher out there with a lengthy video on it. Don’t let confusion discourage you, find a solution. Some educator out there can phrase a concept in a way that just makes sense to you but you have to find it.
This is a tip that my mom would want to be on this list. She never stops enforcing the idea that peppermint helps your brain focus. Similar to how chewing a certain flavor of gum during a class can help you recall information when taking a test when consuming the same flavor, peppermint is meant to increase alertness and lower stress. I’ve gotten into a habit of chewing peppermint gum or grabbing a mint while I study and even if it’s just placebo, it works.
The human brain is approximately 73% water. It only makes sense that if the organ is to work at full potential that it isn’t dehydrated. Everyone’s water intake is different based on needs, activity level, weight, height, etc. But, it is undeniable that focusing and learning require the intake of water based on how heavily your brain relies on water.
I hope that these tips and tricks can help even if they’re out of the ordinary. I recommend at least trying them and catering them to your needs. I wish everyone good luck on preparing for your finals and remember that even though school is almost over, this is the homestretch and trying your hardest to succeed on your exams makes all the difference.