With the end of the term coming up, it’s time for middle school students to prepare for final exams. Studying for final exams can feel overwhelming and certainly stress-inducing, but there are ways to prepare! Read on to learn more.
Create a Study Schedule
The first step in effective exam prep is to create a study schedule. Carve out time before or after school or in between extracurricular activities where you can study uninterrupted. It’s helpful to have a dedicated study space where you can get some work done without any distractions. For example, head to the library before the bell rings in the morning for some quiet study time. Your study schedule should spread the topics over the span of a few weeks to avoid cramming. Giving yourself ample time to prepare, increases your understanding and retention of the information.
Take Detailed Notes
Effective studying starts in the classroom. Taking clear, detailed notes you can refer to during study sessions increases your ability to retain the information. In class, write down the main topics and use highlighters and colored pens to bring your attention to important points to remember. You can even get creative and draw pictures or create acronyms to help you memorize key information.
Focus on Weak Areas
When planning a study session, focus your attention on weak areas. Use your time effectively and prioritize studying material you’re struggling with or not understanding as easily. Repetition over time helps you better absorb and retain information – so stick with it!
Practice Using Old Tests
Old tests make great study tools. You can create study guides or have a friend or parent create a practice test inspired by questions on the old test. It’s easier to gauge what information you’re having trouble understanding based on the questions you missed previously.
Incorporate Technology
Staring at the same book or notes can be exhausting and boring over time. Using technology is a great way to escape the repetitiveness of traditional notes and incorporate a little variety into your study sessions. There are plenty of fun, educational websites with games, quizzes and videos that can help you learn and study a number of topics.
Create a Study Group
Studying is more fun with friends! When you work together to achieve the same goal, everyone benefits. Create a study group with friends and classmates so you can motivate and hold each other accountable. Helping each other learn is a great way to learn yourself. If you notice someone else struggling with a topic you understand well, offer a helping hand by teaching them what you know. Get creative by coming up with educational games to play, songs to sing or rhymes to remember. It’s all about teamwork!
Take a Snack Break
Studying for final exams isn’t only about studying – it’s about taking breaks. Effective study habits include taking intermittent breaks to enjoy a snack or take a short walk outside. Take 10 to 15 minutes to stand up and get away from your work. Staring at the same information for hours on end tires your brain. Taking breaks refreshes and reenergizes your mind, giving you the extra motivation you need to finish your study session strong!
Day Before and Day of Exam Prep
Of course, much of exam preparation includes good study habits, but it also includes good health habits. Don’t neglect your health the night before or morning of final exams. Go to bed at a decent hour and get plenty of sleep. Wake up the next morning and eat a nutritious breakfast. Good sleep and a healthy breakfast are fuel for the mind!
Relieve Test Taking Anxiety
Many students feel anxious or stressed during tests. Preparing for final exams also includes preparing for exam day nerves. Here are a few tips for relieving anxiety while taking an exam:
- Take deep breaths.
- Answer the easiest questions first, then come back to the more difficult ones.
- For multiple-choice questions, use the process of elimination to narrow down possible answers.
- Remind yourself that you don’t have to be perfect – you just have to do your best.
Preparing for final exams can be a stressful process. By following these simple study habits and preparation tips, you can set yourself up for a successful end of the term. At Lake Forrest Prep, we believe in equipping students with the skills and resources they need to excel academically and beyond. Visit our website to learn more about how we support the success of our students.