5 ways to make studying easier

Quite often, exams are an unavoidable part of student life. Exam time can cause a lot of anxiety for many people, and studying is not always easy. 

Making a plan and being prepared is the best way to avoid becoming overwhelmed about exams. If you're struggling to get yourself organised, here are 5 ways to make preparing for your exams easier.

1. Make a study plan

Structure your study and give equal time to each subject, making sure the time you're setting aside will be enough to cover the topic you want to look at. 

This doesn't mean spending hours on one subject - start off with 45 minute time slots and work from there to find what's best for you.

Try and make sure not to spend too much time on one subject, because you won't want to fall behind in others

Try to stick to the plan. If you have a lapse, don't stress out, just pick up where you left off.

2. Avoid distractions

Try to keep a clutter-free study environment. The best place to study is at a desk with enough room for your things which you can keep tidy. 

If you find it hard to stay off social media, try downloading an app like selfcontrolapp.com on your internet browser that can block websites like Facebook or Twitter for a certain length of time.

Turn off the TV and put your phone away so that you can stay concentrated on studying. If music helps you focus, try to keep the volume low in the background.

3. Keep hydrated

Keep a bottle of water close to you while you're studying. Slight dehydration can lead to a lack of focus and concentration, so it's important to drink enough water when you're studying.

If you run out of water, it's an opportunity to get up and stretch your legs when you go to refill before settling back into your study.

Keeping hydrated also goes hand-in-hand with eating well during exam time to make sure you are performing at your best.

4. Get enough sleep

Avoid staying up all night cramming before an exam as you'll need all your energy the next day and a lack of sleep will affect your concentration and memory.

Find out how to avoid all-nighters if you have a habit of late-night cramming when exam time rolls around.

5. Reward yourself

Study can be hard-going, so remember to reward yourself after a productive study session. Take the time to treat yourself for your hard work.

My exam stress is getting out of hand

If you are feeling really overwhelmed and the stress is becoming too much for you, make sure you talk to someone.

This could be a teacher, a friend, a parent, a lecturer, anyone who can help.

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