Myla Reid
With midterms, many people might struggle to study with certain subjects. As a result, they can cause stress and be overwhelming.
When it comes to taking midterms for the first time, many freshmen experience major anxiety and dread, while others believe they are prepared for the obstacles ahead. Midterms can be very stressful, but they are ultimately a huge part of your academic career. Although they can harbor a lot of anxiety, there are a myriad of strategies you can use to prepare. Some methods for studying for big tests, such as midterms, are looking back at notes, taking practice tests, seeking help from teachers and finding tutors.
“When I’m preparing for midterms, I look back at notes that teachers have given to me and study with a friend [so we can] help each other out,” freshman Elise Howard said.
Studying can be challenging for many who feel that they are not familiar with the subject. Another common issue is not knowing what to study, such as topics for which students were absent or did not fully comprehend during the lesson.
“The most challenging part of studying for midterms is [trying to remember] all the information in my notes, but on the day of the test, [the information] is not there,” freshman Ivy Small said. “It’s frustrating, because I spend so much time on topics that [aren’t] on the exam.”
The high stakes associated with midterms make exam preparation a primary source of stress. Many students become overwhelmed with the material. Learning how to manage these worries during exam season is just as important as studying.
“I deal with stress by talking with my family and also playing sports. Soccer and flag football help me a lot,” Howard said.
Everybody comprehends information in different ways. For example, some excel in math-related topics, while others are better in English. Focusing on subjects you struggle with the most is crucial when exam season comes.
“I feel most confident in math, art and Spanish,” freshman Carolina Villa said. “However, I might struggle in English and anatomy, so I’ll have to work harder for those.”
Midterms are a stressful event that happens every winter. You will have to study hard, which might induce stress or a sense of being overwhelmed. Relaxing activities such as listening to music or reading books can help relieve that stress, allowing you to study productively and stress-free.