Step #1: Make a study schedule You've probably heard this before, but I will emphasize it because it is critical: do not cram,and space out your study blocks. By spacing out your studying, you'll reduce anxiety and maximize long-term retention (which is the whole point of learning, right?). What's worked for me in the past is a week or two in advance, I'd create a list of subjects I intended on studying for. Then, I'd make a sub-list of what I intended on doing for each subject to prepare. Finally, I'd look through PowerSchool and sort out each unit based on what I received on that unit's assessment, and focus on the unit with the lowest score first. After prioritizing my studying, based on my weaknesses and exam date, I'd work backwards, planning out my time until that day. Keep in mind that there are only 24-hours in a day, and if you over-plan, you will fall behind and not study everything you need to do. Therefore, I'd advise creating a buffer day before the exam in case you fall behind for last-minute review. For an example, here's the study schedule I made my junior year. Keep in mind, it's not perfect, and based on my experience last year, I've found flaws and plan on incorporating the lessons I've learned last year when making a new study schedule (the need for a buffer-day was the …show more content…
If you can focus for long periods of time, regardless of the subject, go ahead and schedule long study blocks (60 - 90 minutes). If you do not have a long attention span, try scheduling 30-60 minute study blocks. If you're like me, and your attention span largely depends on your interest level in the subject, block out large chunks for subjects you're interested in, and short ones for subjects you're not interested in. Aim for 5-10 minute long breaks for short study sessions, and 10-15 minute long breaks for long study