Five ways you can improve your studying

Studying can be daunting for many of us. Use these tips and techniques, you'll be ready to take on your final exams.
Person in grey sweater writing notes with blue mechanical pencil
Five ways you can improve your studying

So, you’ve reached the end of the semester. Congratulations!

But, the holidays aren’t here just yet. Final exam season is right around the corner, and you’re now realizing that you’ have multiple final exams that you’ve barely started reviewing for. Sigh.

Don’t panic — we’ve gathered some strategies that may help you overcome that hurdle:

 

1. Attend review sessions and utilize available study guides
Review sessions and study guides are useful because they help you pinpoint which concepts and question types you don’t know how to solve. If you’re in 200- and 300-level courses, there are usually many sessions, study guides, and old exams available. You can access them from UCalgary’s PASS program, program-specific student clubs (such as the Engineering Students Association (ESS) or Faculty of Arts Student Association), and your professors.

2. Create a study schedule and stick to it
Plan your time effectively by laying out your priorities and viewing the big picture. Note your exam dates and set blocks of time aside to study for each subject. Don’t forget to include study breaks and factor in your sleeping schedule. Rest is essential to being exam-ready.

3. Keep your zone (and notes) tidy
Nothing is better for your peace of mind than a clean, uncluttered study area — the same goes for your notes. Some questions to ask yourself include:

  • Are you in a space with enough light?
  • Are you free from distractions like social media or video games?
  • Do you have a comfortable seat?
  • Are your review notes clear and legible?

4. Find your studying rhythm

It’s important to recognize which studying strategies and techniques work for you. Test it out: try studying alone in EEEL for one hour, then study with a friend in TFDL for another hour — in which case is your studying more effective?

  • Do you retain more information by rewriting notes, continued rereading, or creating flashcards?
  • Do you study better with a marathon session or with the Pomodoro technique?

5. Get support when you need it
Speak to an academic development specialist or one of the counsellors at Wellness Services if you’re stressed. You can also speak to an academic advisor with your faculty.

 

Everyone studies differently so use the tips that make the most sense for you. Now, get your pens, highlighters and cue cards ready… get set… study! When you're ready, here's what you need to know on the day of your exam.