It’s the beginning of exams. I’m one of the few at Ryerson that is lucky to not have any. But this blog post isn’t about me, it’s about you – the student who is wasting their time on this blog instead of studying.
Step away from the screen. It doesn’t have to be like this. You’re the student who didn’t quite do the recommended 30 minutes of studying every night routine. But have no shame. Take comfort in that there are many of you out there, all who face some major cramming in the next few days. While I don’t recommend repeating this next semester, there are those who will. For you, I present three last minute tips for handling the rest of your exam period.
Tip 1: Manage your time wisely (what’s left of it)
You’re clearly studying at the last minute, your first exam only a few days away. It’s even worse for those who have back-to-back exams (why are these always on a Saturday?) While you know you should have done it earlier, there are still some time management skills you can whip out. Step 1? Figure out how many hours you have left. You’re not counting days anymore, you’re entering minutes territory. Dedicate yourself, as hard as it is, to the subjects you don’t know as well. It’s best that you pass every exam than ace one and fail the others.
Tip 2: Don’t be so hard on yourself
Listen, you only have so much time left before it’s all over. Instead of bashing yourself for mistakes past, think positive. Realize what you do know and work on what you don’t. Failing to study properly happens, whether it’s because of your job, stress or love life, there’s no need to put yourself down. Again, you’ve only got hours left until your exam. Don’t waste it on worrying and instead crack open a book. The human mind can do wonders when under pressure.
Tip 3: Avoid distractions (i.e. stop reading this and study!)
What is the hardest problem facing our generation these days? Unplugging. It’s probably why you’re in the situation you find yourself in. I can’t stress how important it is to get off YouTube – watching cats play patty-cake, while hilariously enjoyable, is not productive. While you’re at it, turn off your cell phone, Facebook, Twitter and any other social networking sites you may partake in. Just stay away from electronics in general. Print off your notes and get to know paper again, including your textbooks. If you really need to study off your laptop, I suggest you turn off your WiFi – it’ll help quench the urge to surf.
Good luck!
