Moira Dunne outlines eight top tips to make the most of your study sessions this exam season
During exams, it can be hard to manage your time when you are studying alone, concentrate for long periods of time and stay motivated day to day.
Here are some study tips to help you stay calm and ace your exams. The list includes things to do in advance to set yourself up for a day of studying, as well as ideas to stay on track.
Tip 1: Have a dedicated study space
Set up a good study space; a place that helps you ‘get in the zone’ when you sit down to hit the books.
Not everyone has the luxury of a separate room, but even if you are studying in a shared room in your house, think about the best way to set the space up. Here are some things to consider:
- Get a comfortable chair;
- Have your desk and screen at the correct height to minimise neck or arm strain;
- Clear any clutter to create a calm, clean area. This helps your mind stay clear; and
- Add a picture or plant to inspire you to spend time in the space.
Tip 2: Get organised
New items in our arsenal can motivate us to get started. Plan ahead and get all the stationery and tools you need before you have to put pen to paper. This saves time when you are studying.
This method can also stop you from procrastinating, as we often use basic prep as a reason to procrastinate.
Bright stationery stimulates the brain, too. By using these tools to summarise and organise your thoughts, you are making it easier for your brain to retain and recall information.
Tip 3: Make a study plan
If you know your exam start date, work backwards and count how many days you have to prepare. Identify some key points to reach (milestones) along the way. Then divide up your work, considering:
- What is the best order to study your subjects?
- How much can you do each day?
- What are the milestones and when?
By planning your topics for each day, or even each half day, you are breaking up the big pile of work into manageable chunks, making it easier for the brain to get started and stay focused.
Whatever study plan you create, make it visible on the wall or your desktop. And make sure you review it and amend it as things change. Staying on top of and updating your plan as you go is key to making your plan work for you.
Tip 4: Have a regular routine
It helps our mind and our body to have a regular routine.
Study at the same time each day. If you have a full day, start early as that’s when our energy and focus is generally higher. This makes it easier to concentrate and learn, and you will get through elements quicker.
If possible, finish early and take a break. This helps your brain to rest and switch off before you try to sleep.
Tip 5: Remove distractions
We all know how distracting our phones are. Every time there is a notification, we want to check it. We also pick up our devices and check them subconsciously, distracting us unintentionally.
Everyone will have a range of distractions in their study space. We can’t easily eliminate humans or pets, so our phone is one thing we can control.
To enable a short burst of concentration, leave your phone in another room. Even if only it’s only for 30 minutes, you can focus, concentrate and learn during that time.
Once that 30 minutes is over, take a short break, check your phone if you need to, and return to focus again after five minutes. Out of sight is out of mind, so you are less likely to miss the phone or pick it up without realising it.
Tip 6: Be active – test yourself
It is very hard to focus and concentrate if you are just reading for long periods of time. So, make your studying an active exercise. Here are some ways you can do it:
- Make summary notes at the end of each topic;
- Highlight key points;
- Create reference cards for revisions;
- Take a test or a quiz; or
- Test yourself with past exam questions.
Tip 7: Eat well and hydrate
Sometimes, you will need treats and snacks for motivation or even a quick energy boost. Lots of foods are known to help concentration and focus; find out what works for you and include them in your diet when studying.
It is important to keep your brain hydrated, as well. Drink water instead of energy drinks or several cups of coffee as both can be dehydrating.
Hydration and eating well will help your brain learn but also retain knowledge. They will also help you sleep better, which sets you up or a productive day of study.
Tip 8: Take breaks
Our bodies and our minds go through peaks and troughs throughout the day. So, breaks are essential to help recharge and reset.
Plan regular, short breaks into your study schedule, along with a longer lunchbreak. Use the longer break to get some fresh air to help clear the cobwebs.
Being outside also free up your mind; the wide-open spaces help to calm the brain too.
Don’t overdo your study time. Shorter productive sessions are better than long days.
Have an evening routine to wind down. Or change your focus with a movie or some other calming activity.
Best of Luck
We hope these eight study tips help you. The very best of luck with your exam preparation and your exams this year.
Be kind to yourself and be proud of your hard work.
Moira Dunne is Founder of beproductive.ie
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