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Cramming
Cramming should only be used as a last resort. However, it is an inevitable part of almost every student’s life. If you find that you have no time to study for a test, here are some steps to help you cram. Just remember, information learned this way is not usually retained long-term. So, you may need to restudy for later use or testing.
Steps:
- Clear your mind for the task at hand. The less stressed you are, the better.
- Gather up all your notes, lecture notes and books for that class.
- Find a good place to study, well lit and with no distractions.
- Go over the hard stuff first while you are fresh.
- Review main points and general ideas.
- Skim over lecture notes, your notes, and assigned readings.
- Review main points and general ideas one last time, and then get some sleep (make sure to set an alarm).
Tips:
- Make sure you eat well before studying. Avoid sugar. It will NOT help you focus.
- Read the chapter summaries for that class. If there are no chapter summaries, skim through the chapters highlighting, main points and equations you may need for the test.
- You will not be able to learn everything in one night. Try to focus on studying what you know will be worth the most, or covered frequently in the test.
- Take a small break for each hour of studying, about 5 to 10 minutes.
- Make sure you get at least 3 hours of sleep before the test. What good is all the cramming if you fall asleep during the test?
- Stay away from caffeine and sugar. Even though they may keep you up for an initial boost, this will inevitably be followed by a crash.
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