Photo Credit: Kynzee Sethi, Photo Editor
Midterm season stressing you out? Crush your midterms with these success tips.
Candy Hua, Contributor
Amid the whirlwind of midterms, we university students often forget a vital truth: Our minds and bodies are connected. Ignoring one affects the other. Striking a balance between mental and physical health isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s a must-have. It’s the secret sauce to weathering the storm of midterms, boosting focus, managing stress, and enhancing overall well-being. Remember, you’re not just a grade on a paper. Your health matters! Hence, here are a few tips that might help you figure this all out:
1. Create a study schedule
During midterms, a study schedule is a lifesaver. It helps navigate the high demands of multiple subjects. By allocating dedicated time slots for each subject, it ensures no topic is left behind. It reduces last-minute cramming, which often leads to stress and ineffective learning. A well-planned study schedule also allows for necessary breaks to avoid burnout. It creates a predictable routine in a chaotic time, leading to better focus, understanding, and retention of information. Thus, a targeted study schedule is the key to conquer midterms successfully.
2. Take study breaks
Taking study breaks during midterms is essential. Continuous studying can lead to mental fatigue, reducing your ability to concentrate and retain information. Breaks provide the mind with much-needed rest, rejuvenating it for further learning. It helps maintain focus, improves productivity, and enhances information retention. Breaks can also prevent burnout and reduce stress. By incorporating short breaks into your study schedule, you’re not just resting: you’re actively improving your learning efficiency. Remember that it’s about studying smart, not just studying hard. So, take that break, because it’s more important than you think.
3. Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water
Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated during midterms is crucial. Proper nutrition fuels the brain, improving cognitive functions, focus, and memory. It helps maintain energy levels, keeping you active and alert. Hydration is equally important. Even slight dehydration can impair brain function, leading to fatigue and reduced concentration. Drinking plenty of fluids ensures optimal brain function. So, throughout your study sessions, don’t forget to nourish your body and hydrate. It’s not just about acing the exams; it’s about taking care of your health too.
4. Stay active
Staying active during midterms is another important point. Regular physical activity boosts brain function, improves memory and concentration, and reduces stress. It also helps maintain energy levels, keeping you alert during long study sessions. Even short breaks for light exercises like walking or stretching can make a huge difference. It’s a great way to take a break from studying and rejuvenate your mind. So, don’t let the books chain you to the desk. Get up, move around, stay active. Your body and brain will thank you.
5. Optimize the use of campus resources (in-person or online)
Optimizing your use of campus resources can be a great help during midterms. Libraries, study rooms, and academic support centers provide a conducive environment for effective studying. Tutors and academic advisors can help clarify concepts and improve study strategies. Online resources and databases offer a wealth of information at your fingertips. Using these resources not only aids in academic success but also reduces the stress of studying alone. So, make the most of what your campus offers. It’s there for you to succeed.
6. Get enough sleep
Getting ample sleep during midterms isn’t just about resting your body, but your brain too. Sleep enhances memory consolidation, improving recall of studied material. It also boosts cognitive functions, leading to better focus, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. Lack of sleep can impair these functions, negatively affecting academic performance. So, don’t sacrifice sleep for extra study time. A well-rested mind can accomplish more in less time. Remember: quality sleep is key.
7. Spend time with your friends and loved ones
Making time for family and friends during midterms is essential. It provides a much-needed break from the study routine, helping to reduce stress and rejuvenate the mind. It also offers emotional support, which can boost morale and motivation. Spending time with loved ones can also remind you of the bigger picture beyond exams. So, don’t isolate yourself. Take time out to laugh, share, and connect. A healthy balance between work and social life contributes to your overall well-being.
8. Don’t be afraid to seek support when needed
It’s okay to ask for help when you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Whether it’s academic advisors, tutors, or mental health professionals, they’re there to assist you. Remember that you’re not alone in this journey. Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but a strength. It shows you’re proactive about your well-being. So, don’t hesitate to seek support when needed. It’s part of the process and remember that everyone needs an extra push sometimes.
In conclusion, midterms may be challenging, but with the right approach, they can be managed effectively. Optimize campus resources, get plenty of sleep, spend time with loved ones, and seek support when needed. Remember, it’s about balance and self-care. You’re more than just a student. You’re a person with unique needs and experiences. So, take care of yourself and remember to breathe. You’ve got this!
