Flash cards are especially useful for memorizing notable people, events, or dates. Color code your flash cards to organize them and make memorization a little easier. You might, for example, highlight all major dates in pink, all historical figures in blue, and all important events in yellow.
If you’re trying to remember who the sixteenth president of the United States is, for example, you could draw a top hat to symbolize Abraham Lincoln. Or you could draw an ocean wave to remember that Napoleon’s army lost the Battle of “Water”-loo.
Make a list of important figures or events beforehand to bring up while you “teach” this person. If you can’t find someone to help you, teach an imaginary student or a stuffed animal.
Write down memorable chapter headings to include in your vocabulary list. Study your textbook with the goal to bring chapter themes together instead of reading in chronological order.
This method can help you prepare for short-answer or essay questions. Try to recall at least 5 sentences’ worth of information when writing your paragraphs without notes.
Later, you can convert these question/answer pairs into flashcards.
Write your questions based on major themes covered in your class or textbooks. Wait at least a day before taking the test so you can start it with fresh eyes.
If you don’t complete the practice test in time, don’t work yourself up. Continue doing practice tests to improve your time. Start with the answers you know and skip anything you’re unsure about. Return to these questions after you’ve answered everything else so you can finish as much of the test as possible. [8] X Research source
Pick a time that also works best with your schedule. Even if you study best at around 6 PM, your parents or guardians might not want you to skip dinner. Try studying an hour earlier or later. [10] X Research source Avoid using sugar or caffeine to stay alert. The energy highs and lows can make study sessions less productive.
Turn off your phone while you’re studying to avoid getting sucked into text or social media notifications. If you can’t work without background music, put on some instrumental music. Lyrics can distract you from studying.
Don’t forget to prepare some brain-powering studying snacks like popcorn, almonds, string cheese, fruits, vegetables, granola bars, and water. [14] X Research source
Have students include their phone number or email on the contact sheet so you can coordinate easily. Invite a mixture of friends and classmates you don’t know as well to avoid turning the study session into a social hour. Participating in a study group can help you see other perspectives. Your classmates likely have different ideas about what the test will focus on, which can help you prepare better.
