Last-minute study routine guaranteed to help you ace finals
Timing Method
The most effective timing method for cramming is pomodoro. It allows you to stay focused for 25 minutes and then take a 5 minute break. I didn’t start using this technique until I started university and it has gotten me through every final, research paper, etc. There is a Chrome extension called Marinara that runs the timer in the background and sounds a cute little sounds to let you know it’s time for a break or time to start focusing. You can even customize the length of each focus and break period if you’d like to.
Make a study guide
reading/memory based: Skim only the readings that you know are absolutely necessary. Read the summaries that are in the back of each chapter and take notes of anything that you aren’t familiar with. The summaries are there for a reason; they are the key points from every chapter that you NEED to know. So, if there’s anything that looks unfamiliar to you, go back to that part of the chapter and revise it/take notes on it as necessary.
math/formula based: If you need to memorize any formulas, make one spread sheet/paper that has every single formula written down and illustrated if possible. If you have time you should even include sample problems of instances where you’d use that formula. If there are any specific problems that you know you have trouble with, then write them out STEP BY STEP. Include any side notes you deem necessary to remembering how to solve it.
Test yourself
When you have created a study guide that you are confident includes everything you need to know for your exam, quiz yourself. Create flashcards and test yourself or ask somebody else to test you. Keep revising each flash card until you do not make a mistake on any single one. Whether it’s definition, concept-based, or formula based make sure you absolutely KNOW everything and do not just say “eh” and toss the card aside thinking you’ll be fine. You’d rather be over-prepared than underprepared.
I am 100% confident in this study routine because it allowed me to ace a final that I was sure to fail. I am also 100% confident in you. Go and be great. God bless you.
