Midterm exams for college students are right around the corner. Midterm exams aim to assess students’ understanding of course material halfway through the semester. The good news is that the majority of college students have experience with taking cumulative exams. Even though the stakes may be higher and the material more comprehensive, employing these preparation tactics can reduce stress and improve chances of success with midterms.
Start Early
Students should start by reviewing the syllabus to familiarize themselves with the format and expectations of their midterm exams. Students should then identify which topics will be covered on the test.
Here are a few tips:
- Begin studying well in advance to avoid cramming.
- Create a detailed study schedule.
- Break study sessions into chunks to enhance retention. Studying a little bit each day is more effective and realistic than cramming the night before the exam.
- Organize all class notes, handouts, homework assignments, etc.
Active Learning Techniques
Students should review their notes from the semester and begin synthesizing the information in their own words. I always recommend that students create flashcards, either by hand or using an online resource like Quizlet or Brainscape.
Other effective strategies:
- Ask professors for blank copies of tests and quizzes from the start of the semester to reinforce concepts – practice is crucial for these subjects.
- Join a study group with classmates. By discussing and ‘teaching’ each other the material, concepts become reinforced.
- Self-quiz – test yourself on the material without referencing your notes. This allows students to see which areas that need more attention.
Taking Advantage of Available Resources
- Most professors hold office hours for students who need clarification or extra help.
- Many colleges offer tutoring services, specifically writing support. For midterms that contain essays, these resources can prove incredibly helpful!
Test Day Preparation
Hopefully, by test day, students will have successfully completed their scaffolded approach to studying. Therefore, the night before the test, students should go to sleep early and lightly review the morning of the exam. This is not the time to learn new material.
Other considerations:
- Ensure you have all the materials needed for the exam, such as pencils, pens, calculators (if applicable), laptop, and water.
- Stay calm throughout the exam. If you encounter something you did not prepare for, take a deep breath and focus on what you know. If time allows, return to the challenging question(s).
Summary
Effective midterm preparation is not just about studying hard but studying smart. By following these steps and adopting effective study techniques, you’ll be better equipped to succeed in your college midterms.
Should you know a college student in need of guidance, I’m here to help and would love to schedule a chat with them!