Testing in school can be both stressful and difficult. Unfortunately, many schools, including universities, don't teach students proper studying practices. Of course, some schools do focus on study habits, but that doesn't in-and-of-itself make test taking any easier.
According to Will Smith, the first step on the path to success is telling yourself that you can. However, that isn't going to be enough. Below is a short list of simple yet effective studying strategies from your friends at Comfitude. Employing these might just help you make the grade.
Are You Pacing Yourself?
How long a time frame do you usually study? Our brains can only take so much, and research has shown that studying for too long can, and will, cause our brains to fatigue. Instead of studying for long periods at a time, research suggests that taking short breaks every 60 to 90 minutes to give your mind a rest is more effective than trying to cram everything in all at once.
When Do You Start Studying?
Speaking of cramming, it's also not a good idea to begin studying too close to the date of your exam. Instead, try studying as soon as your instructor presents new information. Don't wait until the last minute, no matter how smart you are.
Do You Create Your Own Study Guides?
Study guides can be sort of a mixed bag. Instructors often provide them, and when they do, the guides can be rather vague. Instead of waiting for your instructor to issue a study guide, create your own notes as you read and use those to study with. If you end up being issued a guide closer to the exam date, you can always add any information to your own notes you may have missed.
How Are You Sleeping?
No matter which strategies you use when studying, poor-quality sleep can (and will) reduce your functional intelligence. That's not something you want to come test day. If you have trouble sleeping before exams, try using a weighted blanket from Comfitude. Research has shown that weighted blankets are effective at reducing stress and anxiety when used at bedtime, and are also capable of helping you sleep deeper and longer.
Exams can be nerve-wracking, but with the right study habits and a good night's sleep, they don't have to be. Give a weighted blanket from Comfitude a try and see what a good night's sleep can do for your grades.