by | Dec 21, 2016 | Math, Teaching and Learning, Testing |

Study Tips for Midterms and Finals

As midterms/finals approach, both students and teachers become very stressed. It seems that the only thing on anyone’s mind is how much work they have ahead of them, yet how little time to do the work there is. Because of this, students tend to shut down to the pressure and give up. They tell themselves they’ll pick their grades up next year and let whatever happens, happen. This is the wrong mindset.

Despite how it may seem, finals do not have to be all that stressful if you have the right approach. If you start with these simple tips and tricks, finals will not be as bad as everyone makes them out to be.

  • Start by reviewing the topics you have covered throughout the year and make some notes on your weak areas that way you can come back to them.
  • Based on your weak areas, make your own personalized study guide.
  • Be sure to write down any questions you come across on a separate piece of paper so you can ask the teachers quick and concise questions as their time is just as limited as their students!
  • Be sure to go in for any tutoring sessions available to you! More often than not, your teachers will teach during these final/midterm tutoring sessions to the very material on the test itself.
  • Be sure to start the studying process early. As the time gets closer to finals you do NOT want to be overwhelmed studying for 4-6 finals at a time.
  • Get together with some friends and study together. Often, any questions you have one of your friends may be able to help you with and vice versa.  
  • Possibly one of the most important, take breaks! Do not overload yourself with too much information at once. Every hour or so watch TV or relax for 15-20 minutes. NO LONGER. If the break is too extensive you will lose focus and desire to return to studying.  
  • Be sure to stay well-nourished and well-rested. A healthy body and brain will result in better focus and concentration.
  • Believe in yourself! You made it this far and as long as you taken the necessary steps in studying for finals, you will do great!

Although this can be a stressful time, make sure you do not become overwhelmed. Even though finals are a large portion of the final grade, worrying will not make anything any better. Make sure you study and prepare to the best of your ability and then there is nothing more to worry about. And after you have test, enjoy your break with friends and family!