Getting started early on studying for finals or other big tests will help you avoid the stress of last-minute cramming. It’s a well-documented fact that we need to be exposed to an idea a number of times before we can truly internalize it. For instance, it can sometimes take up to 40 exposures to a new word before we can successfully integrate it into our vocabulary. So the earlier you begin exposing yourself to test material, the better it will sink in before the big exam. Here’s how to effectively prepare for finals — introducing our 2024 finals strategy guide!
1. Make a plan
Many students are put off by studying because it feels never-ending; don’t let that be you! Make a study plan starting anywhere from two weeks to four days before your finals. Decide which of the following strategies to use, how long you will spend on studying each day, and set a goal for each session.
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- Reorganize and synthesize your notes from class.
- Use flashcards, highlighters, and other tools to focus on key concepts.
- Have a friend come over and quiz you on key topics.
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2. Mix it up
Plan short study sessions for multiple subjects in one night. Ideally, the plan for each test will involve four or more 30-minute study sessions, but this tactic can help you approach each subject with fresh eyes. Use varied strategies to study the same information. For example:
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- Study session 1: Color-code your notes.
- Study session 2: Re-organize your notes.
- Study session 3: Create a study guide.
- Study session 4: Have someone quiz you using your study guide.
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3. Get Active
The more you activate various areas of your brain, the more likely you are to really learn information. To that end, bring movement into your studying whenever possible.
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- Put a cheat sheet on your bathroom mirror and look over it while you brush your teeth.
- Put post-its throughout the house so that you see them while you go through your day.
- Get these giant post-its and physically organize information on a full wall.
- Take a walk while you teach someone else what you’re learning.
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4. Prioritize and organize
Arranging information as you go in a clear way can help you focus on what’s really important. Our favorite system for studying starts with the first day of a unit:
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- Day 1: Read over your notes and identify any ideas that you don’t understand. Then take action by emailing a teacher, asking a tutor, or finding a video to explain.
- Day 2: Annotate your notes from Day 1; highlight, underline, or add symbols to help you synthesize key concepts.
- End of the week: Look back over all of your annotations and make a one-page summary of the most important ideas for the week.
- Repeat every day and every week.
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5. Reward yourself
Studying doesn’t have to be a pure slog. Research shows that giving your mind regular breaks allows it to better master information. So, make sure to schedule in constructive rest at regular intervals throughout your studying.
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- Plan social events with your friends once you’re all done. Get together and celebrate all your hard work.
- Take it easy the night before the test. The whole point of planning is to avoid cramming. If you’ve done it right, you should be able to relax the night before the test. There’s nothing wrong with some low-impact reviewing (like looking at flash cards), but the bulk of the work should be complete at this point.
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Procrastination plagues us all at some time or other. However a little bit of strategic planning can take what often feels insurmountable and break it into small, accomplishable pieces. If you need more tips or strategies don’t hesitate to contact us. Good luck on finals, and remember: summer’s almost here.
