If you're in university like me, then you will soon be entering everyone's favourite part of the year: exam time! Sometimes (okay, let's be honest - always) it's hard to stay motived while studying. It's finally starting to get warm outside, and all you want is for summer vacation to start. But what you need is to keep studying for the next couple weeks. So without further ado, here is how you can do that. How to: stay motivated during exam period!
1. Make Lists!
My most effective way to stay organized and on time is to take lists. I always like to start the day with a detailed list set out of what I need to accomplish. This way, you have attainable goals to work towards. If you start off with a few smaller tasks, and work up to the bigger ones, they will feel more attainable and you will stay motivated. (The main note here is to make sure your list is attainable, setting a too-long list will just end with you disappointed, even if you did accomplish a lot)
2. Set "study hours"
Once classes end and we're all in full on study mode, its hard to know when to study, and when to go outside and play that game of volleyball with friends... So, at the beginning of each day, set specific times when you will study, and when you will take a break. This way, when you are taking a break, you won't feel guilty about it, because you've budgeted for that time. If you want to go the extra mile, combine your lists with your study schedule, so you know exactly what has to get done for each period of time, and you can more accurately judge your process.
3. Use brightly coloured pens
Maybe this is just a personal preference, but I always find reading and writing more fun when there is colours involved. In addition to this, I really like to make my notes as visually appealing as possible. Although I wouldn't exactly call myself a visual learner, I love good design and nice layouts. So, if you make your notes like that, then you won't mind reading them as much! Plus, just writing out those notes is studying in itself.
4. Study outside
If its warm enough (and not too windy) then studying outside can be the perfect balance of relaxing and working. Just be careful you don't get too distracted!
5. Take breaks
The final, and probably one of the most important rules is: take breaks. We all need to study as much as we can, but sometimes your brain just needs a rest. Your studying will be more effective if you're not totally brain dead and exhausted of reading while you're doing it. So try to take short scheduled breaks every few hours, and you can return to the books refreshed.
So, those are my five tips for staying on track this exam season! If you're in school, let me know in the comments how exams are going for you... and if you're not in school... lucky you! Ahaha
Until next time,
