"Help! Exam's Tomorrow and I Haven't Studied!"
Strategy to study at the eleventh hour
We all know that feeling when you’re procrastinating and in the middle of it you realize that there’s an important exam tomorrow and you haven’t studied at all!
I know you’ve started panicking already. But listen to me. Take a deep breath; all is not lost. Here's a quick guide on what to do and what not to do!
What to Do:
Breathe: Before you dive into study mode, take a few deep breaths to calm your nerves. Panic can hinder effective studying.
Prioritize: You can't cover everything, so focus on topics that are most likely to come up. List them down first.
Collect PYQs: Get the list of PYQs in those particular topics. A lot of times you get similar problems every year. PYQs help you get some direction.
Eliminate Distractions: Create a focused study environment by putting your phone on silent and avoiding social media. If possible switch it off.
Chunk and Time: Break down topics into smaller pieces and allocate specific time to each.
Active Learning: Use techniques like summarization and practice using PYQs to actively engage with the material.
Quick Breaks: Take 5-minute breaks every 25 minutes. Your brain needs time to absorb information.
Test Yourself: Use any remaining time to do quick recall exercises or flashcards.
What Not to Do:
Avoid Chatting: It’s natural to check on your friends' progress, but this will only distract you and may waste valuable time. Stick to your plan.
Don't Cram: Trying to stuff information at the last minute usually backfires. Breaks here are important for memory formation
Avoid All-Nighters: Lack of sleep will impair your cognitive functions.
No Last-Minute New Topics: Stick to what you’ve prioritized and avoid diving into entirely new subjects.
Don't Skip Meals: Your brain needs fuel; make sure you eat balanced meals.
Final Thoughts:
Even at the eleventh hour, strategic studying can help. Remember, this exam is just a part of your journey, not your entire future. Keep a positive mindset, and give it your best shot.
Good Luck!
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