Study Tips for the Final Haul

By HAVEN HEADLEY

With the exam week approaching, it is important to remember to stay healthy. Many students concentrate extremely hard on their studies; sometimes to the point that their health suffers.

Mental breaks are necessary. When you concentrate for too long, your brain will not obtain the material that you are studying.

Personally, I like to study for 50 minutes and then take a ten-minute break. It allows my brain to have a slight mental break, without losing the mentality of studying. On this short break, it is smart to do something that you enjoy to relax your mind and body. Take a quick walk or step outside for some fresh air.

A change of scenery will relax and refresh your brain. It is a good idea to change up your studying location rather than staying in one spot, according to a recent New York Times article on study tips. Having this break will allow your brain to recharge for the next 50 minutes of studying.

It is also a good idea to take time for emotional breaks. Studying for a long of time can cause one to become very wound-up and stressed out. When you walk outside to get some fresh air, it can rejuvenate your mood. If you have a balcony, you could even go out there for a moment, or, if you have a dog, you could also take it for a walk.

Allow yourself to take some time off from the books and computer. Watch some TV, listen to music or spend time with friends. It will help your study time be more productive.

Physical breaks are necessary when studying for exams as well. Sitting in desks can cause a sore back and other muscles to tense up. Make sure that you are getting up and walking whenever you feel your muscles getting tight. Participating in cardio 20 minutes a day can help improve memory, according to a Huffington Post article on study tips.

Don’t forget that your eyes are also important. If they get strained easily, you might want to get a pair of reading glasses to help studying go more smoothly and comfortably.

Despite the demanding hours, you have to make sure that you take showers regularly and eat at a normal schedule.

I know studying for exams uses all of your time. However, a shower can do wonders to relax your body for more studying.

Also, eating healthy will give you the energy to do the work. Make sure that you are sleeping enough and at normal hours. Staying up late to study for an exam that is at 8:30 a.m. is not going to help you learn the material. Use your time wisely and sleep so that you can think clearly while taking your exam.

As a final tip, don’t wear sweatpants every day to your exams. When you dress-up for class, even slightly, you feel better about yourself and are more likely to do better on your exam. Also, make sure that you plan out what to study ahead of time. Make a realistic study schedule, and don’t forget to add study breaks.

Overall, just try to relax and take in as much material that you can without burning yourself out-it will pay off in the end.