- Repetition.
It can take up to seven times for a human to remember a term, definition, explanation or anything completely. Everyone is different. Repetition can help you to memorize and understand vocabulary and formulas. A few different ways to repeat during your studying include, writing the information down more than once, reading it aloud, looking at old exams, and spacing out studying.
- Break it up!
No one ever said you had to cram your studies all in one night. If that’s what works best for you because it keeps things fresh, awesome! However, science proves spacing out study can help you remember things better in the long run. Start the week before, or review something each week leading up to your finals.
- Organization.
Spread out, designate an hour or two, and organize your space. Get out of your residence hall room and head to the library or a room down the hall. At Black Hills State University’s newest residence hall, Bordeaux Hall, there are designated study rooms at the end of each corridor with marker board walls and large tables for students to utilize in their studies. If you’re working on math, spread out your textbooks and work, bring a marker and eraser and practice on the dry erase walls in Bordeaux Hall.
- Group Participation.
There is no shame in asking for help when it comes to studying or classwork in general. It can sometimes even be more fun and can create lasting bonds throughout your education experience. Studying as a group can help review go faster as well. If you don’t remember the answer to a question, perhaps one of your friends does – saving you time looking through pages of notes or textbooks.
- Stay hydrated and fueled!
It has been proven time and time again that staying hydrated and eating well the night or week of an exam helps keep students in a good mindset during test time. It’s easy to snack on potato chips and popcorn when studying, but your body and brain is better-fueled by nutritious foods. Some foods (nuts, yogurt, blueberries, seeds, and fish) have even been proven to aid concentration and memory, so opt for a yogurt parfait (available at Einstein’s in the BHSU Library) this study season!
Here’s a bonus tip. Don’t forget to set your alarms! You don’t want to be rushing in last minute after having just rolled out of bed for an important exam. Plan the day ahead enough that you will be fully awake and attentive for your exam, and leave room for a hearty breakfast. Some feel that when you dress up it can help you feel more put together and professional. When you feel put together, professional, it helps you put your best foot forward.
About Tutoring at BHSU
Black Hills State University offers a variety of tutor and assistance programs. Two of the most used programs are the Writing Center and the BHSU Math Assistance Center (MAC). The Writing Center is open fall and spring semester. If students are looking for extra aid in BHSU math courses, the MAC is the place to go! The goal at the MAC is to provide BHSU students with the support they need in order to succeed in math. Students can make appointments for the campus and online BHSU Writing Assistance Center, and walk-ins are always welcome as space allows. Students seeking help from the MAC can stop by during regular MAC hours with questions, or simply work on math during MAC hours so help is readily available. BHSU-Rapid City, online students, and commuters are also able to get help from the centers by online consultations.
