Tips and tricks for a successful exam period!
Successfully through the exams
The semester break is tempting – but before it comes to that, you have to persevere one more time: The exam period is coming up, the calendar is full and so is your head. We have put together a few tips for you on how to get through the exams in a relaxed manner.
Tip 1: Plan realistically
A study plan helps to keep track of things. It is best to first create an overview in the calendar with all exam dates and already fixed commitments so that you can realistically see which study times are actually available to you. Then estimate the necessary learning effort per exam and incorporate it into your plan. But be careful: Don’t plan too much. It’s better to set achievable goals every day than to have a perfect plan that fails after two days. Starting early enough and dividing large topics into small learning units – that motivates.
Tip 2: Learn in blocks, not in a marathon
Studying for hours on end rarely has the desired effect. Learning blocks of 25–45 minutes, followed by short breaks, are more effective.
During the breaks: get up, move, get some fresh air. In addition to shorter breaks, consciously plan longer breaks – for eating, for a walk or sports, because exercise promotes blood circulation to the brain and improves concentration.
Tip 3: Sleep is not a luxury, but a learning strategy!
Sleep consolidates what you have learned – studying through the night, on the other hand, has the opposite effect. It’s better to go to bed an hour earlier than to read another page half awake, because only a rested body can absorb new learning material. A fixed sleep rhythm with regular times supports regeneration, increases concentration and ensures overall performance.
Tip 4: Good nutrition for good energy
Healthy eating is always important – especially during the exam period. Avoid fast food, alcohol and lots of sweets, as they put a strain on the body and make you sluggish, and instead opt for light, balanced meals and healthy snacks. “Brain food” such as nuts, avocados, blueberries, legumes or salmon supports concentration. Also, make sure you drink enough fluids: Around two liters of water or herbal tea help to prevent tiredness, headaches and irritability.
Tip 5: Find the ideal place to learn
Consider what environment is best for you to learn in. Home offers flexibility and comfort, but also brings many distractions. The library scores with peace and quiet, clear time structures and a concentrated working atmosphere. In libraries, there are often additional special rooms available that learning groups can book for joint exam preparation. Learning groups can be worth their weight in gold if everyone really wants to learn. Use them to quiz each other, discuss and clarify open questions.
Tip 6: Use learning techniques
Summarize each lecture to the essentials – ideally in handwriting, as this is a better way to remember the content. Combine different learning methods such as mind maps, visualizations, quiet music or loud repetition to appeal to several senses. Explain the material out loud to yourself or others and use learning groups for motivation and mutual quizzing. Flashcards help to consolidate content in the long term, as they promote regular repetition and active learning.
Tip 7: Reward for achieved goals
Motivation is maintained if you treat yourself to small rewards after completing learning units – such as a walk, a series episode or a meeting with friends. It is important that the reward matches the effort and motivates you instead of slowing down the learning process.
Conclusion
Starting early is key. You don’t have to know everything, but know the essentials well. Trust what you have learned – and don’t forget: The exam period will pass – you can do it! Good luck with your exams!
Image credits: Region Mainfranken GmbH
