Lets Chat #3: Surviving Midterms Week

Hi  guys,

This let's chat post is going to be slightly different than the previous two posts.   If you haven't already noticed by the title of this post, the post is going to be about midterms.  Dun dun dun!  Well actually you shouldn't be scared when you see the word midterm in the title of this post, but that is actually how many people feel when they encounter that (dreaded) word.

Midterm week is next week for me and I have exams for my two hardest classes in one day, no breaks to study in between (chemistry and genetics).  So you can consider this post a break from my studies.

Here is an inspirational quote for you guys that applies to more than just test taking:

Hopefully this post will help whether you are in college or  high school or just need to take an exam.

Here are some tips to help you survive the midterms (or any other testing week for that matter):

1)Get rest- I know many people feel that when a big test is coming up they have to pull an all-nighter for it.  Unless you completely must.  Which brings me to my next point

2)Pace yourself- All-nighters usually consist of cramming.  Although cramming may seem like a good idea it should be the last resort.  After all your brain does eventually wear out and start to get sleepy.  So when you find yourself reading the same sentence over and over again or doing the same problem without it making any sense it is time to take a break, this also conveniently brings me to my next point.

3)Take breaks- Now this is a tricky one because not everyone has the same attention span.  You may just have to test yourself to see how long you can study before you tire out.  Also don't confuse not wanting to study with your mind asking for a break.  Here is a helpful method someone told me about how to do your study sessions:  Study for 45 minutes. Then give yourself a 15 minute break, to walk around or go on the internet.  When the 15 minutes are up go back to studying for another 45 minutes and repeat.  This method helps you concentrate without distractions. 

4) Relax- Whether it is before the test or during the actual exam, the last thing you need to be doing is freaking out because when you freak out you are least productive.  I know this is hard for a lot of people (and me at times) but just "chill out"!

Good luck everyone.