Procrastination. College students dance with this toxic partner. We flirt with her, take her out on a date, and suddenly realize that she’s homeless with a dog and lives in Cleveland, OH.
We’ve all seen those TED Talk videos about the procrastination monkey, where he says, “You just need to take control of your procrastination monkey and plan ahead.” What terrible advice! We are college students, after all—of course, we’re busy! Of course, we don’t want to make time for midterms.
I’m here to tell you that I am one of you. I am a college student, and I’m using this blog as a form of procrastination for my own “Geology of Planets” midterm.
Is the anxiety eating me alive? Yes. But that’s not the point.
If this sounds boring, definitely keep studying. But if you want to discover some surprising insights about midterms and how to tackle them, keep reading!
Okay, so I did some research on why midterms even exist (technically, you don’t have to take them if you trust your other grades in the class 👀). It turns out that midterms are beneficial for more than just your grades, demonstrating the effectiveness of your professor, or as a torture device.
Here are some key points from a query on Quora:
I specifically want to focus on how midterms can help us prepare for our finals. If you think of midterms as practice final exams, you might study more effectively in benchmarks.
A lot of my study tips come from Reddit, which is a great way to find relatable and tried-and-true methods. Here’s what one user had to say:
If you’re like me, you know that some of this advice is easier said than done. That doesn’t mean it’s not good advice.
One of the best ways to prepare for midterms is to create a study schedule and stick to it. It might sound boring, but having a plan helps you cover all the material without feeling overwhelmed. Break down your study material into manageable sections so that you’re not trying to tackle everything at once. This makes it easier to focus and absorb information.
Also, don’t forget to use active learning techniques! Flashcards, quizzes, and group study sessions can make studying more engaging and effective. Trust me, these methods can really reinforce what you’ve learned.
When it comes to managing your time, I can’t stress enough how helpful a to-do list or planner can be. Prioritize your tasks based on deadlines and importance so you know exactly what you need to tackle first. Setting specific goals for each study session will keep you on track and give you a sense of accomplishment as you check things off.
And let’s be real—procrastination can be a huge challenge. To stay motivated, find ways to make studying more enjoyable, whether it’s rewarding yourself after completing a task or studying in a fun environment with friends.
As you gear up for your exams, practicing with past exams or sample questions is a game changer. This will familiarize you with the format and types of questions you might encounter. During the exam, make sure to read each question carefully—don’t rush! Managing your time is crucial, so allocate time to each section and stick to it.
For multiple-choice questions, eliminate obviously wrong answers first to increase your chances of guessing correctly. When it comes to essay questions, take a moment to outline your thoughts before diving in. These strategies can make a big difference in how you approach the exam and boost your confidence on test day. Good luck!
Okay, so you take your midterm, feel pretty good about it, and then see your test score. Well… let’s just say it didn’t turn out as you expected. You spiral into the realization that you didn’t know as much as you thought you did, and you might even question your self-worth. Does this sound familiar?
Here are a few facts to keep in mind:
THERE ARE LESSONS IN FAILURE. Life is about learning, and setbacks are part of that process. Failing your midterm can ultimately lead to success on your final. Think of midterms as a gauge for your personal growth and understanding of the material. Instead of blaming yourself (or your professor), view it as a starting point for your studies.
Remember, YOU ARE NOT YOUR GRADES.
However, it is important that we keep doing our best and study for significant exams. We typically want our doctors to experience all the failures they need to learn how to take care of patients before they ever come in contact with one.
Acknowledge Stress and Anxiety: Common symptoms of testing stress can significantly affect performance. I don’t know about you, but I experience major testing anxiety—my heart races, and suddenly words stop making sense. When this happens, I remind myself to breathe and do my best.
Here are some common symptoms of testing stress and anxiety:
If you struggle with these symptoms and they frequently affect your testing, consider seeking a doctor’s diagnosis for anxiety. Check if your college allows accommodations, such as extended testing dates or extra time on tests. Don’t hesitate to discuss your symptoms; most professors want you to succeed.
Self-Care Practices: Self-care begins before midterm season. Taking care of yourself is essential during exam periods. Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and exercise to significantly improve your mental and physical well-being. Adequate sleep helps your brain consolidate information and reduces stress. Eating a balanced diet provides your body with the energy it needs to function optimally, and regular physical activity can improve your mood and reduce stress.
In addition to these basic self-care practices, mindfulness techniques can be powerful tools for managing anxiety. Meditation and deep breathing exercises can help calm your mind and body, reducing feelings of stress and tension.
Seeking Support: If you’re struggling with stress or anxiety, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Talking to friends, family, or a counselor can provide you with support and guidance. Many college campuses offer counseling services specifically designed to help students cope with stress and mental health challenges.
Joining a study group or finding a study buddy can also be beneficial. Collaborating with peers fosters a sense of community and support while keeping you accountable and motivated. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and seeking support can make a significant difference in your overall well-being.
As we wrap up this discussion on midterms, it’s essential to recognize the importance of maintaining a balanced approach throughout the exam season. Midterms are not just obstacles; they are part of the college experience that, when managed correctly, can help us prepare for finals and enhance our learning.
Instead of viewing them solely as stressors, let’s see midterms as valuable opportunities for growth and self-assessment. Remember to prioritize your mental health while striving for academic success. Take breaks, practice self-care, and seek support when needed. By adopting the right strategies and keeping a positive mindset
And just to let you know, I did better than I thought I would on my “Geology of Planets” midterm. If what I have studied here helped me in my midterm, I know it can help you!
