As exam season approaches and the semester winds down, it can be overwhelming to figure out the best way to digest the material effectively. Luckily, there are many techniques that can help aid you in your preparation for finals this school year.
One technique I use is the study recall method. When I study, I find that actively recalling the material that I’ve learned through flashcards, quizzes and practice questions can be incredibly helpful when trying to understand concepts. By engaging with the material, you’ll be able to identify areas where you need to focus your attention and improve on.
Another crucial study technique to keep in mind is space repetition. Instead of cramming everything into one study session, spreading out your learning and reviewing material over a period of time can help reinforce memory. This can be done by breaking your study sessions into shorter, more frequent sessions over a few days or weeks leading up to an exam.
Along with space repetition, the Pomodoro technique is a great way to productively manage your study sessions. This technique – created by Francesco Cirillo – involves using a timer to divide work into focused intervals of 25 minutes followed by short breaks. Since our brains are not made to learn new information in one long continuous period, taking short breaks is a good way to stay fresh and boost your focus while studying.
Another study method that can significantly improve your retention is elaboration. This technique involves explaining and expanding on the material you’re studying by making connections, asking questions and explaining concepts in your own words. Elaboration can also involve discussing the topic with a classmate or explaining it to someone else. This process of linking new information with familiar ideas creates deeper connections in your brain, making the material easier to understand and remember.
While effective study strategies are crucial, don’t underestimate the importance of sleep in the learning process. According to Piedmont Healthcare, research has shown that sleep plays a critical role in strengthening our neural connections that form memories. When you sleep after studying, your brain sorts through the material you’ve learned, transferring it from short-term memory into long-term memory, making the information more accessible when you need it. In addition, several studies have shown that students who get enough sleep tend to perform better academically than those who don’t. So, while it may seem tempting to pull an all-nighter to prepare for a test, getting a full night of sleep is actually more beneficial for retaining what you’ve learned.
Preparing for exams doesn’t have to overwhelm you if you approach your studies with the right techniques. By utilizing strategies like active recall, spaced repetition and the Pomodoro method, you can study more efficiently and retain information. Also keep in mind that it’s not about how much you study, but how effectively you use your time and energy. By prioritizing adequate sleep and incorporating these methods, you can reduce stress and feel confident and prepared to approach your exams this season.
