Study Tips For Finals And Other Big Exams

NorthPoint • December 10, 2021

Exams can be one of the most challenging parts of college. It’s easy to feel stressed when you have a major midterm or final coming up, but you have nothing to worry about if you’re prepared. Studying throughout the semester will help you retain information and ace your tests. Follow these study tips, so you can walk into each of your tests feeling confident while performing your best.


1. Prepare Early

Cramming is one of the most common study methods in college, but research has shown it to be ineffective at building long-term memory. If you cram for midterms, chances are you’ll forget the information by the end of the semester and have to relearn all of it for the final. Don’t save all your studying until a few days before an exam. Start preparing for tests as soon as the semester begins.


Take time after each class to review your notes, and maybe make some flashcards. Go over the notes and flashcards regularly throughout the semester. When you set aside a few minutes every day to study, you’ll build long-term memory. When it’s time for your exam, you’ll hardly have to spend any extra time studying because the information will already be stored in your brain. Your friends will be amazed at how well you’re able to do on your exams without cramming all night before a test.


2. Keep Your Learning Style in Mind

Everyone learns differently, so to best prepare for your exams, it’s important to know your learning style. You can use this information to study in ways that best help you. If you’re not sure of your learning style, think about what types of activities typically help you focus.

If you tend to remember details you saw on a diagram or visualization, you’re probably a visual learner. Kinesthetic learners like to be moving while learning. If you have a hard time sitting still while learning, this might be your learning style. Auditory learners remember things best when listening. An online quiz can help you determine your learning style if you’re still unsure.


Auditory Learners

Auditory learners should participate in group discussions when studying for tests. They also can benefit from speaking aloud while studying. If you’re an auditory learner, try explaining some of the concepts you’re learning to a friend. Any dialogue about the material will help keep the information in your head for the test.


Visual Learners

Visual learners should draw pictures and diagrams while studying for an exam. It can also help to color-code your notes. Find a whiteboard or large poster to create more space to turn your notes into visuals. When it comes time to take your test, you’ll more easily remember the information when you think back to the images connected to it.


Kinesthetic Learners

Kinesthetic learners should try to stay physically active while studying. Go for a walk while studying flashcards or make up hand motions to represent different concepts. If you have a study group, play a game of charades with terms and concepts that will be on your test.


3. Attend Office Hours and Review Sessions

Not enough college students take advantage of their professor’s office hours and review sessions. Attending office hours throughout the semester can help you learn the material, and sometimes your professor will give you some insight into which things you’ll want to focus on for the test.


Review sessions often cover exactly what’s on the test. Try to attend all review sessions while in college because you don’t want to pass up the opportunity to hear what you need to study.


4. Remember Your Physical Health

A common mistake college students make is sacrificing their physical health while studying for exams. Unfortunately, physical health plays a significant role in our brain’s ability to retain information. Your studying will be more effective if you’re also taking care of your body.


Sleep

Many different studies have found evidence that a good night’s sleep improves memory and reasoning ability, which are two things you’ll need plenty of during a test. It’s important to get a full night’s sleep following a study session because, during sleep, your brain processes the things you’ve been learning and creates memories. To ensure the material for your test sticks in your brain, make sure you’re getting a full 7-9 hours of sleep each night.


Nutrition

healthy diet is important while studying because it can impact your energy levels. A diet high in sugary foods will lead to energy crashes. A diet full of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and non-processed foods will help you maintain the energy you need to prepare for your exams. The last thing you need is a sugar crash right before a study session, or worse, right before taking your exam.


Exercise

Exercise promotes blood flow to the brain, which is why it’s important to stay physically active while preparing for a test. The additional blood flow helps with focus, recall, and reasoning ability. Exercising just before a study session or test can improve your performance significantly.

If your schedule is too busy to allow for separate exercise and study sessions, you can combine the two! Some people like to bring their notes or flashcards to the gym or hold a walking study group.


5. Take Breaks

Your brain requires time to process things you’ve learned. That’s why it’s important to take occasional breaks from studying to let the new information process and turn into long-term memories. Whether you take a nap, exercise, or chat with a friend, the time away from studying will actually help you retain more information.


Breaks can also help you relax when stressed, which is important while preparing for an exam. One study found that students who were overly stressed performed worse on their exams. So be sure to take breaks to do the things you enjoy and let yourself have fun. The mental health benefits of relaxing and enjoying yourself will help you feel more comfortable during the test.


By Jenn Handy October 1, 2025
Before starting your first semester at college, it is important to pack well so you are sufficiently prepared. This helps you start college smoothly, settle in, and manage stress levels effectively. If you have read any articles detailing basic college necessities, then essentials such as school supplies, clothing, and bedding will likely make it into your suitcase. However, some key items tend to be forgotten during the packing process. Discovering some unexpected essentials that you might not have on your packing list yet can help to make your men's housing experience at BYU-Idaho all the more enjoyable. Organizers A well-organized space makes life smoother on multiple fronts. Not only does it make it easier to keep your new home clean and tidy, but it can also support your studying. Multiple studies demonstrate a link between cluttered spaces and decreased mental performance. Investing in a few space-optimized organizing products will allow you to maintain a tidy space that promotes healthy study habits. There’s no shortage of products on the market that can help you maximize your space. Space-saving clothing hangers , drawer organizers, and under-the-bed storage solutions are all effective ways to keep your room from looking and feeling overly “busy,” without having to be too selective about what makes it into your suitcase and what gets left at home. Outlet Options College housing and outlets are a bit like cars and cup holders; there’s never quite as many as you’d like there to be, and in some cases, the ones that are there are located in awkward positions. Yet as a modern college student, you’ll depend on outlets to maintain your academic and social lives, not to mention keeping your sanity in check. Having to decide between charging your laptop and phone is an inconvenience you should not have to endure. You can’t change how many outlets your room has, but you can get creative with how you manage the ones it does have by packing an extension cord and a power strip . The extension cord opens up additional flexibility, allowing you to choose your furniture placement without being confined to outlet location, while a power strip can significantly multiply the number of outlets. Large power strips can power up to twelve devices from a single outlet. Just make sure the outlet has a surge protector, which can help keep your devices safe in the event of a sudden spike in electrical voltage. Rain Protection You might arrive at BYU-Idaho at the tail end of summer, but those warm days will soon give way to fall and winter conditions. Packing with October-March in mind will make your early months at BYU-I all the more enjoyable. Remember: there’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing. You’ll likely have earmarked space in your luggage for warm clothing, but many newly-arriving students forget that having rain-ready clothes can be just as important for navigating Rexburg’s climate. Make sure to bring a rain jacket, and save it for a rainy day (literally). The weather is famously difficult to predict, but you can prepare for stormy days by investing in an umbrella and keeping it by the door so you do not forget to grab it on your way out to brave the elements. First Aid Supplies Packing first aid supplies is not likely to be at the top of your priorities list, but it can go a long way towards ensuring you can roll with the punches. Dealing with illnesses, allergies, and minor cuts and scrapes becomes much more manageable when you have a few key first aid essentials in your room: Pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relief medicine, such as ibuprofen, offers a quick and convenient way to deal with minor aches and pains. If you ever get hit with a headache during your college experience, you’ll be thankful you made space for it in your suitcase. Allergy medicine: Rexburg can be delightful during the spring and fall months, but keep in mind that allergies can begin to flare around this period. Packing some antihistamines will allow you to enjoy all that the season has to offer to the fullest. Bandages and dressings: Accidents happen. A few bandages and dressings will allow you to treat minor cuts and scrapes at home, without having to visit the doctor. Cold and flu medicine: Spending so much time with your fellow students can be fun, but it always increases your chances of catching a cold. Packing some cold and flu medicine will be a lifesaver when you wake up with a sore throat and a runny nose. Transportable Storage Options College students are constantly coming and going. Just as you’ve gotten comfortable, you’ll be heading home for the holidays and or going on a trip for spring break. You’ll find the process of visiting home and other fun spots infinitely less stressful by investing in easily transportable storage that allows you to effortlessly move your belongings from one place to another (and then back again). Some smart solutions include:  Plastic storage bins: They’re strong, stackable, and easy to carry. Portable storage carts: Getting picked up? Storage carts have wheels, allowing you to simply roll your belongings to the car. Duffel bags: For lighter loads, duffel bags offer a convenient and flexible method of transporting your items. Enhance Your BYU-I Men’s Housing Experience At Northpoint, our luxury apartments provide the perfect place to live during your time at BYU-Idaho, providing the space you need to fit all your college necessities and enjoy life to the fullest. Contact us today to learn more about our men's housing availability or to schedule a tour.
By Jenn Handy June 16, 2025
We share advice for creating a morning routine as a BYU-I student living in shared housing, including planning ahead, getting up quietly, and more.
By North Point February 21, 2025
Success starts with preparation, and at NorthPoint, we’ve got you covered. We share strategies for acing your first college presentation, such as practicing at your BYU-I student housing.
By Jenn Handy February 20, 2025
Looking for your BYU-I-approved student housing? NorthPoint offers incredible amenities, including outdoor areas, an on-site gym, communal study spaces, and regular social events.
By North Point February 4, 2025
Whether you utilize the campus fitness center, participate in group classes, or take advantage of the top-notch amenities at NorthPoint, staying active at BYU-Idaho is within reach.
By North Point December 12, 2024
Like most BYU-I-approved student housing, NorthPoint adheres to visitor policies. Knowing the rules can help prevent conflict with your roommates.
By Jenn Handy October 1, 2024
NorthPoint Apartments is conveniently located near Rexburg's most popular fall activities. Secure your BYU-I student housing with us today so you can partake in all the seasonal fun.
By North Point September 4, 2024
Keeping your living space tidy when you are busy can be challenging, but there are plenty of ways to save time and improve your efficiency. Try out these tips to see what works best for you.
By North Point August 12, 2024
Sharing student housing with others comes with its challenges. It might be the first time you share a room with others. Having roommates can be an advantage, making getting to know others and having a vibrant social life more effortless. However, you may find it difficult to get alone time. Finding the right balance between privacy and your social life is important. You don't want to be so involved with your roommates that you never get time alone, but at the same time, you don't want to shut yourself away. If you're smart about how you use your time, you can achieve this balance. Setting boundaries, creating your own space, and setting up a schedule with roommates can all help. Why Privacy and Social Interactions Are Important Everyone needs privacy. At college, it helps you maintain your well-being and can be essential for achieving academic success, too. You need space to study in peace and time to examine your thoughts and feelings or just to unwind. But a vibrant social life is just as important, and college gives you the chance to really develop one. Spending time with others is good for your mental health . It helps you avoid loneliness, sharpens your mind, and boosts your mood. It could even help you live longer . Socializing enables you to build connections during college that could last a lifetime. How to Set Boundaries with Roommates Setting boundaries with your roommates is one of the best ways to create personal space for yourself. When you communicate with each other about your needs, you can all devise a solution that works for everyone. If you want to respect each other's boundaries, it's best to be upfront instead of waiting for tensions to rise. Try to have a polite discussion where everyone has their say. Set clear expectations and rules when you move in. These agreements might include dedicated hours for quiet studying or solo time in a shared bedroom. You could also talk about things like keeping the apartment clean and tidy and making sure you each know your responsibilities. It’s wise to draft a quick roommate agreement so you can refer to it later. Sometimes, conflicts and misunderstandings can arise. When this happens, there's no need for drama. If you can approach each other with kindness and understanding, you can get on the same page without fighting or falling out. If you feel compelled to address an issue, avoid being accusatory. Similarly, if your roommates want to discuss something with you, try not to be too defensive and remain open to resolving the concern. If you need help, consider bringing in a neutral third party to help mediate. To prevent problems from building and boiling over, it's a good idea to have regular check-ins. During these brief meetings, you'll have the opportunity to discuss how things are going and how you can collectively improve them for everyone. Creating Personal Space It can be tough to have your own space when you share an apartment and a room with others. But there are ways to do it so you and your roommates can have the personal time and space you need. Some of the steps you could take include: Using room dividers to separate rooms into smaller spaces Making use of noise-canceling headphones to block out noise from others, as well as keep your preferred audio to yourself Setting up a schedule to ensure everyone gets their alone time at some point during the day/week One of the most beneficial things you can have in shared student housing is a space you can retreat to. Even if it's just a corner or a space on your bed, it gives you somewhere to decompress, think, and relax without the pressure of having other people around. Managing Social Activities Your solo time matters, but it's also crucial that you don't retreat too far into your own world. College offers many opportunities to make new friends and create a fantastic social life. At the same time, you need to find a balance and make sure you're not spending too much time socializing instead of studying or recharging your batteries. You might want to get out there and start making friends, but it can be overwhelming. There's so much to do and so many people to meet, and you might feel like you can't miss out on anything. If you want a rich social life without getting overwhelmed, it's important to allow yourself to take a break. Set limits on your social time to ensure you have plenty of personal downtime. Respecting your roommates’ schedules and preferences is essential when planning social events at your apartment. If one of your roommates needs to study, it's not fair for you and your friends to disturb them–especially without warning. Respecting Each Other's Schedule and Space Everyone likes to organize their schedules for study, sleep, and other activities. Respecting each other's schedules helps to create harmony in your apartment. To be respectful of each other's space, try some of these strategies: Set quiet hours and use signals for when you want alone time. Set rules and schedules for using common areas. Schedule usage times and keep these spaces tidy. Be respectful of each other's belongings and personal space within common areas. Private and Shared BYU-Idaho Student Housing Sharing your home with others can be challenging, but you can make it work if you're respectful of each other. Start by aiming to communicate well and show each other respect and understanding. When you can respect each other, you can share your space in a way that works for everyone. Are you looking for the best student housing in Rexburg? Contact NorthPoint to learn about our private and shared student housing options .
By North Point July 16, 2024
Being in an unfamiliar town during the summer can feel frustrating or boring if you aren’t sure how to spend your time. Luckily, there are many fun and exciting things to do in Rexburg if you know where to look.