Midterms are Creeping Up ... Don't Let Them Scare You

Editor-in-Chief

   Halloween is not the only thing creeping up on us quickly. Midterm exams are creeping up as well. Are you prepared?

   Classes at the University of Arkansas at Monticello have now been in session for six weeks, which means midterm exams should be given within the next two weeks depending on the instructor or class.

   It's not too early to start studying. But you should take some things into consideration before you begin.

   According to Elizabeth Scott, the stress management guide at About.com, students should avoid doing the following things: pulling "all-nighters," fueling yourself with caffeine, having study parties with friends, waiting until the last minute and constantly reminding yourself what's at stake.

   Scott's points seem to contradict what many think would be great study methods. However, she is correct. Sleep is a necessity and if you stay up all night, you're not going to be in the right mindset for the test. Caffeine will mess up your sleeping needs and energy levels. If you study with friends, you will likely be distracted from studying the material. If you wait until the last minute, you're not going to have enough time to prepare, which will "increase your chances of needing to try some of the other items on this list, such as powering down the caffeine or pulling all-nighters." Lastly, don't focus too much on how you must do on the test. The anxiety caused by the fear of doing poorly could work against you.

   Marlene F. Blumin, director of the All-University Study Skills Program, gave a list of study tips to turn stress into success to The Daily Orange, the independent student newspaper of Syracuse, N.Y. Blumin suggests:

• Begin studying no fewer than ten days before the test.
• Study individual topics rather than reading only books or lecture notes in order.
• Create a visual of the information.
• Form a study group to help anticipate test questions.
• Put most effort into studying the topics emphasized by the instructor.
• Do not study a specific topic for more than two hours at a time.

   Blumin and Scott each give great tips to preparing for midterms. With less than two weeks before exams should begin, it is crucial to start studying now. By beginning now you allow yourself time to see what you may not understand and ask your instructor to explain the material again before the test day. This is something I have done several times. You do not want to wait until the last minute and realize you have questions you should have asked. I have done that too, and trust me, you don't want to make that mistake.

   The key is to prepare and not stress over the preparation or the exam. Take these tips and use them as you begin studying. Good luck!

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