Author: Jacky Falkenberg

1) Stop monkeying around

Somehow, I don’t think watching Netflix for four hours will help you study for your prelim. You know when you’re making an effort and when you’re not, and it’s time to stop making excuses. You need to study.

 

2) Get rid of any distractions

We all have that friend who is constantly sending us the next viral video or asking us to like their Instagram picture. When you’re actually trying to get work done, it might be worth it to go to the library without them – and put your phone on Do Not Disturb.

 

3) Pull out your books and get down to business

Using your friend’s study guide probably isn’t the best way to learn the material. Pull out those textbooks and put in the work now, so you have less to memorize later.

 

4) Turn off the music

Yes, it works for some people – but as much as you want to believe you can study for your prelim while listening to music, it probably isn’t the best idea. Pull out those headphones and use the need for tunes as motivation to finish your work.

 

5) Get a good night’s sleep

One of the most difficult things to do is to get work done when you’re too tired to keep your eyes open. Plan ahead and sleep at least 7 hours before your study day.

 

6) …and if you don’t, load up on coffee

If you didn’t quite get all the sleep you needed, down as much coffee as possible to keep you pushing through.

 

7) Find ways to stay motivated

Motivation does wonders for people who don’t want to study. Plan a fun evening event and tell yourself you can only go if you get a certain amount of work done beforehand.

 

8) Have a friend help you out

Friends are great resources for studying. Ask upperclassmen for advice on ways to go about projects they’ve already done, or compare notes with other people currently in your class.

 

9) Find shortcuts to help you study

If taking notes in class helps you understand the material the first time, do it. If watching Khan Academy after class is more your style, do it. It doesn’t matter what it is, but be honest with yourself about what actually helps, and GO DO IT.

 

10) Always keep your eye on the prize

If all you want is an A, remember that, and use it to help you want to learn the information. All you need to do is convince yourself that putting in the work now will get you one step closer to that long-term goal.

Jacky’s column Surviving the Slope is about finding the best kale, learning to love excruciating pain, and getting swole at Helen Newman. Whether your goal is to stay fit during the winter or simply avoid the freshman 15, Surviving the Slope will give you all the inside tips you need to build a healthier you.