After a hardworking 90 days of school pass by as quick as ever, few days remain before students begin their mid-year examinations on Wednesday, January 22nd. This Wednesday will consist of history courses and math and the following day will hold English and science. Friday the 24th serves as a makeup day for those absent, but is a day off for the rest. Exams can be stressful as they are a potential determining factor of students’ grades. What are the best ways to efficiently study and remain calm throughout the next week?
Personalization of studying tactics is crucial, as all individuals learn differently. However, fan-favorite studying methods are certainly recommended in order to stay on task. Katie Kracunas, an experienced junior at Hingham High School, is ready to enter her third round of mid year exams. She advises, “The best way for me to study is to go to the library. The atmosphere is generally super easy to focus in. A lot of people go, which is great if you need to collaborate and ask questions about studying.” Hingham Public Library offers nutritious snacks, free wifi, a free space to work, and access to paid printing. Whether heading over with a friend or just stopping in on your own works better for you, the library is a great place to focus. For other productive environment options, College Transitions recommends parks, coffee shops, bookstores, and anywhere your phone isn’t.
Ms. O’Connor, a history teacher who is eagerly preparing students for midyear exams offers, “My favorite tip is to review all the notes you took in class every day, but unfortunately I have a hard time enforcing that students take notes. If you do not have notes I hope you start taking in semester two.” Notes from class offer accurate insight into exactly what you’ve learned throughout the year and are great for forming study guides and practicing memorization. Junior Nora Connolly describes another favorite tactic, “I love making reference sheets on a blank sheet of paper consisting of each subject taught throughout the year. While most classes do not allow a reference sheet during the exam, creating them helps me gather my thoughts and organize topics accordingly.” These two studying techniques are a great way to prepare for this year’s assessments.
Remembering to take breaks frequently is extremely important for both memorization as well as mental health. In a recent study from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes, a piano player learning a new song proved to be most easily compliant when taking frequent breaks. “Our results support the idea that wakeful rest plays just as important a role as practice in learning a new skill.” (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes) Remember to take breaks whether you grab a snack, chat with a friend, or take a walk.
