2 answers
Elizabeth
Student
Tomball, Texas
1
Question
Asked
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What are the best techniques to use to study for college finals out of high school?
I am a current senior in high school about to graduate and have taken Dual Credit classes as well as AP Classes throughout my high school journey. I was wondering if it is any different depending on college on study techniques and habits.
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2 answers
James Hernandez
Account Manager
29
Answers
Heredia, Heredia Province, Costa Rica
Updated
James’s Answer
**Prioritize!**
You know your classes best. Are you having a tough time with philosophy but loving media and society? It’s easy to spend more time on the classes you like and avoid the ones you find hard. But during finals week, this isn’t helpful. Make a list of all your work and rate how comfortable you feel with each class. This will help you focus on the ones you need more practice with.
**Make a Study Schedule**
Don't skip this step! You already know what you need to do; now break it down into smaller tasks. For example, instead of just “study for chemistry exam,” try “make a terms list, review chapters 9-10, create flashcards, and review lab notes.” Use a planner or app to schedule when you’ll do each task. Be realistic (don’t plan to write a 15-page paper in two hours), stick to your schedule, and remember to take breaks. Your brain can only handle so much at once.
**Re-write Your Notes**
When reviewing your notes from the semester, don’t just read them. Have your old notes on one side and a new notebook or your computer on the other. As you go through your old notes, re-write important ideas and definitions. Writing them again helps keep them fresh in your mind.
**Test Your Knowledge**
Give your brain a chance to practice recalling info before the test. You can make flashcards with index cards or use an app like Quizlet. If your professor gave you a study guide, turn those concepts into flashcards to test yourself.
**Teach Someone Else**
They say teaching is the best way to learn. Find a friend and take turns explaining class concepts to each other. If you prefer practicing alone, pretend to teach an empty room. Try not to use your notes too much. It might feel odd at first, but you’ll thank yourself during the exam.
**Get Rid of Distractions**
Studying with distractions is less effective and takes longer. If you can, turn off your phone and keep it out of sight. If you’re worried about social media, ask someone you trust to change your password until finals are done.
**Stay Healthy**
It may seem like you have a lot to study and not enough time, but your brain needs sleep and good food to work well. Avoid all-nighters and junk food. Take breaks to walk outside or at the gym for a few minutes each day. This helps reduce stress and recharges your brain.
**Just Do It!**
Starting can be the hardest part, but the sooner you begin, the better your chances of acing those finals!
Good luck!
You know your classes best. Are you having a tough time with philosophy but loving media and society? It’s easy to spend more time on the classes you like and avoid the ones you find hard. But during finals week, this isn’t helpful. Make a list of all your work and rate how comfortable you feel with each class. This will help you focus on the ones you need more practice with.
**Make a Study Schedule**
Don't skip this step! You already know what you need to do; now break it down into smaller tasks. For example, instead of just “study for chemistry exam,” try “make a terms list, review chapters 9-10, create flashcards, and review lab notes.” Use a planner or app to schedule when you’ll do each task. Be realistic (don’t plan to write a 15-page paper in two hours), stick to your schedule, and remember to take breaks. Your brain can only handle so much at once.
**Re-write Your Notes**
When reviewing your notes from the semester, don’t just read them. Have your old notes on one side and a new notebook or your computer on the other. As you go through your old notes, re-write important ideas and definitions. Writing them again helps keep them fresh in your mind.
**Test Your Knowledge**
Give your brain a chance to practice recalling info before the test. You can make flashcards with index cards or use an app like Quizlet. If your professor gave you a study guide, turn those concepts into flashcards to test yourself.
**Teach Someone Else**
They say teaching is the best way to learn. Find a friend and take turns explaining class concepts to each other. If you prefer practicing alone, pretend to teach an empty room. Try not to use your notes too much. It might feel odd at first, but you’ll thank yourself during the exam.
**Get Rid of Distractions**
Studying with distractions is less effective and takes longer. If you can, turn off your phone and keep it out of sight. If you’re worried about social media, ask someone you trust to change your password until finals are done.
**Stay Healthy**
It may seem like you have a lot to study and not enough time, but your brain needs sleep and good food to work well. Avoid all-nighters and junk food. Take breaks to walk outside or at the gym for a few minutes each day. This helps reduce stress and recharges your brain.
**Just Do It!**
Starting can be the hardest part, but the sooner you begin, the better your chances of acing those finals!
Good luck!
Amanda Gordon
Customer Success Manager
4
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Amanda’s Answer
Hi Elizabeth - James has some great suggestions! If you are already taking AP classes you have likely started to build strong studying practices. I would continue to build on that foundation as you are studying in college - find a great place to study on campus (I loved the third floor of my library), surround yourself with friends / fellow students who have similar study habits, meet with your professor when you have any questions and know that you may need to adjust how you study across subjects. Best of luck!