With exam season approaching, students begin studying for their tests. Along with the pressure of these exams, stress starts to take a toll as students gear up for the final few weeks of school. Using a good study method that helps students retain information, one of the most important parts of the final six weeks, takes away some of the stress that comes with testing. If past methods haven’t worked as well as hoped for, here are more potential study techniques to practice as exams quickly approach.
1. Practice testing
Practice testing especially helps when it comes to taking AP tests, so you can get used to formats. After studying the material, take a practice test to see which areas you need help, and which areas you’ve got down. College board offers practice tests in the course modules around this time of year, perfect for using this method.
2. Spaced repetition
With exams approaching, integrating studying into your daily routines will make the information become second nature. Starting this about a month out from exams will make the knowledge easily accessible on exam day. At the end of every day, about a month out from the exam, study. Don’t try to cram, but be thoughtful with what you’re studying, so you can retain the information.
3. Pomodoro Method
The Pomodoro Method involves studying in chunks. After 25 minutes of studying, take a five minute break, then repeat. This method aims to reduce mental exhaustion and burnout commonly experienced around this time of year. Repeat this twice every other day and the information will be retained and burnout avoided.
4. Teach the material
Sit down with someone and ask if you can teach them the material. This helps show you how much you really know about the subject, and if you chose someone taking the exam you’re studying for, they can tell you if you’re teaching the material accurately. Or, you could use a whiteboard to write out what you know in order to teach the material.
5. Active recall
Make flashcards or speak about the topic out loud. Take tests solely on what you remember. Don’t study before so you can see what you naturally know and what you need to work on. Invite your friend over for a study session and you can quiz each other using pre-made quizzes on quizlet or flashcards.
