By Amanda Valentovic
Staff Writer

A month into the semester, many students are finally getting into the rhythm of being back in class, only to be greeted by upcoming midterms. A crazy schedule combined with a few tests in one week could send stress levels through the roof, so here are a few tips for studying and test-taking.

First plan how much time will be needed to study for each class. Make sure it is balanced evenly, so each one gets the amount of time it needs, and nothing is neglected. Also, make sure that time is made to study – try not to cram.

“You’ll find you have a lot easier time studying if you make extra time for it. Put off any unnecessary social obligations or family commitments,” said an article on usnews.com by Jeremy F. Hyman and Lynn F. Jacobs. Spreading out study time will help to reduce the feeling of panic and will be much more relaxing.

Try to focus on whatever is being studied for. This can be different for everyone; sometimes quiet helps, other times music can be great background noise. Put together a study group with people from class if everyone wants to be productive and learn together.

A reward system can work, too. “When I study I tend to have a reward system for myself,” said sophomore athletic training major Elana Galassi. “Sometimes I put on a movie and say that as long as I study for, I can half that amount of time and watch the movie.” An incentive can give students an extra push if they need it, balancing working your brain and doing something fun. A reward system can also include taking breaks, which are just as important as knowing what will be on the test. Thinking about something else for an hour or two in between review questions and study guides can help to lower stress levels.

When it is time to actually take the test, be confident. “Stay calm and walk in like you own the room and whatever material you’ve studied,” Galassi said. Try not to doubt too much, and do not panic. Panicking can make the test worse than it actually is, possibly lowering the grade.

Also, take advantage of the test time given. “Many students leave before the exam is over. That’s never a good thing to do, since there are always problems to be checked over or essays to be added to or proofread,” said Hyman and Jacobs. Going over answers to questions and double checking work could sometimes make a huge difference in a grade. There is no reason not to use the full period to take the test.

Even though midterms or any test can be stressful and a lot of work, there is nothing to panic about. Slowing down and taking each one one step at a time can make all of the difference, and midterms will be over in no time.