Study Essentials

Exam time is looming over us all and workloads have become unbearable. Never fear, we have the ultimate guide to studying. From techniques to essentials, we know what you need to make that grade.

Let’s start with your surroundings. We think that everyone should have a calm environment to work in so if you know that you will be interrupted by friends, siblings or the postman you need to move.

Desk Inspiration: Image Source: Karolina Grabowska

Distractions are inevitable so minimise the objects around you, let’s face it anything that aids procrastination needs to be moved. Once your desk or table is cleared, make sure you have everything that you need. You don’t want to be up and down all afternoon fetching different bits and bobs from around the house so prepare your workspace before you start.

On Your Desk, You Should Have

• Computer
• Textbooks
• Diary
• 3 Pens
• Coloured Felt Tips (For Revision Notes of Course)
• Tea
• Fruit

Once your desk is set up you are ready to work but first, make sure you are awake and feeling motivated. Maybe go to the gym or head out for a walk beforehand. It’s very easy to become so stressed out that you don’t believe you have any time to do anything other than work. Studies show, however, that time spent exercises, bathing and eating properly are key for good brain stimulation.

First of all create a study plan, make daily targets that you need to keep making sure that you stay on track ever day. Plan for a day’s rest for that day when you just can’t take it anymore. You’ll get a great sense of achievement from hitting those targets, and you can reward yourself with more break time.

Split your time into making notes then revising them. We know that revision is never fun so make your notes as interesting as possible, use bright colours and bold text, even try using flash cards to test your mental reflexes.

Speaking of break time, remember to give yourself time off. Have a ten-minute break every hour and factor in time for eating. Try to get out of the house as much as possible, maybe eat lunch in the garden or go for another walk. It will stop you going stir crazy.

Finally, take the day before your exam off. Catch up on your notes in the morning, but go and have fun. It’s really important that you go into an exam feeling calm and relaxed so don’t stress yourself out.