Prepare for the upcoming week
While summer just around the corner, students must face on more tribulation: finals.
Studying for finals usually takes countless hours of studying and sleepless nights. However, this semester doesn’t have to be like that. By following some easy tips and healthy study habits, finals won’t be the worst week of the year but instead can be a week of accomplishment.
It’s best to start studying for an exam at least one week in advance. Some students like to begin studying by revising notes or lectures for a small period of time.
“I start by reviewing notes and then looking back at the texts we covered in class. Ideally I do that every day at least a week prior to a test. By the last two nights of studying I simply ask myself key concepts and answer the best I can using the notes/texts as help,” said John Alford, a junior English major.
The main priority for studying is to familiarize the brain with information so by the night before an exam there is no need for an all-nighter and instead it will be just a night to review information that has been embedded.
A great way to study would be interactive learning with study groups. Some students like study groups because it’s a way to verbally learn something and helps by hearing it rather than by reading it.
“I do better when I study in groups. When I articulate things I understand them,” said Ashley Wiener, a junior English major.
Some students prefer to study solo in order to learn information at their own pace or by dodging the infamous note moocher who never shows to class.
“I think most people are trying to free ride and use my knowledge to get a better grade,” Alford said.
While there are many ways to study, having the perfect atmosphere is key. Many students like to study in public places like the UMC or coffee shops, such as Starbucks or Buchanan’s. Coffee shops are great places to study because of their tranquil atmospheres and soothing music along with refreshing beverages that can help ease nerves.
Another place to consider is the library because it offers so many different areas within that cater to different subjects. Another great place would be Boulder Pubic Library. The public library is architecturally beautiful and offers a picturesque view of Boulder Creek that is ideal for studying peacefully.
Last Minute Tips:
Keep in mind the different techniques for studying and match them with the subjects for the exams. For example, many students have essay exams, multiple choice, short answer, true and false, presentations etc…
Study guides can be a student’s best friend. Make flash cards, and say them out loud. Usually when the person hears a definition, chances are they will remember it more, According to StudyTips.org, “Using speech and hearing to reinforce your learning will be helpful in remembering the information.”
For essay exams, practice practice practice! Make outlines and make sure to know key concepts. Always know the significance of a concept instead of a definition. According to Study Tips, an outline is a great way to start writing.
Professors haven’t given up on their students just yet, they are still sitting in their office waiting for frantic students to come in and ask for help. Take advantage of their knowledge and their office hours.
Also make sure to keep in mind all the things going around campus such as tutoring. There is math tutoring in the math building and a writing center on campus with grad students and professors available to read over papers and offer their intellectual input.
One of the most important parts of being ready for finals is to stay healthy. Don’t turn to Adderall or any other form of pharmaceutical remedy to help stay up. They best way to stay up is to just get plenty of sleep and avoid long nights by studying ahead of time.
Contact Campus Press Staff Writer Amanda Bernaudo at Bernaudo@colorado.edu.
