Studying for exams in college can be a daunting task, especially when transitioning from high school. It’s difficult to find the motivation to study and even more difficult to stay focused once you start. While studying looks different for everyone, I would like to share some of the things I do to make it a bit more bearable (and, dare I say, fun)!
My first tip is to find what studying environment works for you and stick with it. Maybe you find it helpful to study with friends or in public spaces so you’re held accountable. Maybe background chatter helps you zero in on your work. Perhaps you need dead silence to really focus. Whatever setting it may be, be consistent to minimize any frustration or brain fog that may come with studying in a space that doesn’t align with your studying needs.
My second tip is to try putting something on in the background. I find that music without lyrics (like jazz or classical) helps me to relax. Sometimes I find it fun to put a movie on in the background - something like a comfort movie or a fun, unserious flick to lighten up the mood.
My third tip is to make an activity out of studying. Go to an aesthetic coffee shop or a historic campus building (here’s a list of best study spots). Bring your favorite snacks and some fun highlighters. Try out a new studying app or chrome extension. Reward yourself with a treat or some downtime after finishing a section. You can still be productive and focused without totally punishing yourself.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help. There is no way studying can be fun if you are suffering in silence. Luckily, the University of Michigan has plenty of resources to get you started. LSA’s Newnan Academic Advising Center provides various learning strategies, study skills, and advising. Feel free to check out the Sweetland Center for Writing, Language Resource Center, Math Lab, and Science Learning Center to meet more subject-specific needs.
Maybe you will take some of these ideas and make your studying sessions more enjoyable! Maybe you already incorporate some of these tips into your routine. Either way, happy studying and Go Blue!