Preparing for Midterms
1. Start early
- Check what type of midterm (if there is one) that your classes have (test, project, paper) and put those due dates on your calendar or planner.
- It can be helpful to get into a regular practice of reviewing your notes the evening or next day after a lecture. Through this habit, you'll be regularly studying for exams throughout the semester, so you can be better prepared.
- Check your syllabus for information about the format and weight of the midterm(s).
2. Take notes
- Taking good notes each class period is a key part of studying for midterms. Instead of wasting time searching for information, you can focus on reviewing the notes you've already created.
- Consider turning your notes into flashcards and studying with a peer. Explaining definitions and concepts to someone else can help you better retain and understand information.
3. Ask questions
- If you don't know the exam format and/or need to clarify the expectations of a midterm project or paper, feel free to ask your professor. It's best to gather as much information as possible, so you fully understand the expectations.
- Visit your professor's office hours and ask questions about material that you don't fully understand yet.
4. Create a study schedule
- Aim to start studying at least 1-2 weeks before the midterm and set aside times to work on your different classes. For some people, it works better to be super specific about their schedule and durations of time to work on each class. however, other people need more flexibility in their schedule. Try stuff out and see what works best for you.
- Remember to space out your study sessions rather than pulling an all-nighter right before an exam. Breaking up your studying into multiple sessions (i.e. 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, etc.) spread out over the course of 1-2 weeks can help you retain more information.
5. Make use of academic resources and peer support
- Visit the Writing Center for a midterm paper or project.
- Make an appointment with a tutor or executive function coach.
- Form a study group with people who can help hold each other accountable.