Mind map your way to exam success
Yes, it’s as simple as that. So, let’s say your exams are just four weeks away and you’re lagging behind, list all the topics of a subject you need to revise on a single sheet of paper in the form of a mind map. Mind maps have been around for a long time and are super effective for organising your thoughts and giving you an overview of all you need to do. The next thing then would be to make a schedule for when and for how long you’ll study each day. And then just get started.
Small wins make big wins
If you start your day accomplishing the simplest of tasks like making your bed when you get up, then that’s one job already completed. It makes it easier to go onto the study tasks with a clear mind…
Get out of your pyjamas
Which takes us onto our third tip, get dressed! Whilst many of us like the idea of lounging around in pyjamas, pyjamas are really for sleeping in and they don’t exactly spell success and can-do attitude, so getting dressed can be the second win of the day for you. You’ll feel prepared and be much more productive when you’re dressed. And you won’t have to dodge the postie when they come to the door!
Feed your brain
To keep your brain cells super sharp and alert during revision eat healthy food such as seeds and nuts (almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds), fish (smoked mackerel on toast is a really simple fix and requires no cooking), veggies (fresh peppers with houmous is nice and easy), fruit and, of course, drink lots of water (and not too many cups of coffee)! And yes, chocolate is really good as a sweet treat, preferably of the darker variety. All good brain food!
Know when to recharge and give your body a shake
There are various studies out there which have attempted to determine how often we should take a break when studying and 5-10 minutes, every 45 minutes to an hour is a good target to have. A fun way to be reminded of when to take a break is by using a Pomodoro (tomato) timer. Set the Pomodoro to remind you when you should take a break! The physical act of winding the timer confirms the user’s determination to start the task; ticking externalises desire to complete the task and the ringing announces a break. But not a good idea if you’re studying in the library!
During the break, do something that recharges you e.g. get outside for a bit of fresh air, have a dance to your favourite song (yes really it will make you feel good and ready for the next part of the revision ) or make your favourite brew and gaze out the window and think about how great you’ll feel once the exams are out of the way and you can look forward to some well-deserved time off.
You’ve got this! Good luck!
