Studying for Exams

Studying for Exams 
Sammy Cristerna
BA Political Science

One of the most important skills students must learn is how to study for exams, it can be difficult to find the right study technique for you, however having a proper routine can help you in school and ease some stress and anxiety on test day. Here are a few studying techniques I have learned over the past couple of years that I think could help you too

The Pomodoro Technique (scientifically proven)
For this technique, study for an allotted amount of time, for example 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, take a 5-10 minute break, then study for another 30 minutes and repeat the cycle. After about 4; 30-minute cycles, take a long break of say 20 minutes. This system allows you to avoid burn out when studying and creates breaks within the time period.

Flashcards (scientifically proven)
This is probably one of the most old-fashioned study techniques, but it is proven to be extremely effective in an academic setting. One way to really conserve flashcards is to write 3 questions in 3 different colors on one side and on the other write 3 answers with the corresponding colored question. Another tip with this technique is to only answer the first question on every card. Then, for the second round, answer the 2nd question. This allows for a more digestible way to study. 

Playback Lectures (Notability function on iPad)
As I have completed my first semester of college, the study technique that has been the most effective has been playing back my lectures on my iPad. As I am playing back my lectures, I can see what I wrote in real-time as my professor is lecturing. I also pull up the PowerPoint that is being presented. Another technique that can be paired with this is creating flashcard questions as you are listening to the lecture. I have found this technique to be the most effective for me.

Teaching the material (scientifically proven)
One great way to really see if you know the material is to being able to teach it to other people. Try teaching your peers or friends through a mock lecture. This not only helps you study, but also helps your classmates.

Create a study timeline (scientifically proven)
It is really important to see ahead of time when each exam is and if multiple exams land on the same day. I give myself at least a week to start studying for exams, and I study in small increments. Cramming isn’t as helpful as having 2-hour study sessions, multiple times a week. 

Getting Sleep (scientifically proven)
Many students cram for test and finals and oftentimes pull all-nighters to help them study the material. Personally, cramming for exams doesn't work for me, and there is science to prove that cramming is an inefficient technique. It is important to get a solid 8 hours of sleep before an exam or quiz. Getting enough sleep will help you get the score you want on your exam and succeed academically.

Lastly, finding the right study tactics takes time and is filled with trial and error. However, once people find the proper technique, it will be much easier to study for the next exam or quiz. Studying is different for everyone, and one technique may work for you but may not work for another friend.