OK, so maybe you should have started implementing your grand organizational plans a little earlier in the semester – but now it’s time for some triage. Adapted from our hit article “The 22 Best Study Tips Ever,” here are some quickies to use in an academic emergency.
| 1 | Review your notes. This may seem obvious, but it’s a good place to start when you’re feeling overwhelmed. It’ll help refresh your memory and get you focused. Try reading them out loud to keep you on task. |
| 2 | Review errors on corrected homework and exams. Be sure to figure out exactly what you did wrong, so you won’t make the same mistakes again. |
| 3 | Memorize less, understand more. Try typing out important concepts or assignments in your own words. It will help you figure out what you know and what you’re not sure of. |
| 4 | Study buddies can help you get motivated and stay focused. But save the pizza until the end of the study session. |
| 5 | Get off the computer. Look at your notes and your books. A change of scenery, even just for your eyeballs, can refresh your mind. |
| 6 | Be a critical thinker. Apply your newfound knowledge to your own experience to draw conclusions and help you remember concepts. Don’t just parrot back what you’ve learned. |
| 7 | Find a quiet place to study. Frat house bad. Library, study room good. |
| 8 | Discover your best study hour-are you a night owl or an early bird? Picking the right time of day will make a huge difference. |
| 9 | Be positive, even when you feel bogged down. Make a list of your ultimate goal(s), to remind yourself why you’re doing this and how it’s going to help you in the future. |
Now you’re ready to apply these tips to your classes. Check out some of our school listings.
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