Surviving Midterms as a College Student

By Ashley Paskill on October 15, 2017

Midterms season is coming up for many students. It is a time of stress, headaches, and schoolwork overload. Exams and projects seem to pile up to no end and students may feel overwhelmed trying to juggle everything they need to do. However, it is important for students to manage these stresses in order to be successful and make it through the semester.

1. Stay organized.

Staying organized is a key way to be successful in college, particularly around midterms. Keep a task list or planner to keep track of all of your assignments and when they are due. Have folders for your syllabi and/or assignment details so you know where to find information about exams and projects that are coming up. Having everything you need be easily accessible will help you find needed information quickly and will eliminate any stress you will encounter if you need to re-obtain the information.

2. Get the most pressing assignments done first.

If you know you have an assignment due tomorrow and an exam due in three days, focus on getting the assignment done before focusing on the exam. Taking things one step at a time helps to eliminate the stress of feeling like everything is piling up. Being able to cross things off your to-do list helps you feel accomplished. Trying to do everything all at once adds to stress levels and will lead to assignments and exams being completed with half the energy needed, making you less successful.

3. Do not procrastinate.

Putting things off until the last possible minute is one way to increase stress. Problems with technology and other challenges are sure to arise and professors are not sympathetic towards these issues. It is better to get things done early and have time to revise and edit than turn something in last minute and have it not be your best or encounter issues. If possible, send your assignment to your professor to receive feedback that may help your grade.

4. Do not forget to take care of yourself.

While getting everything done is important, if you do not take care of yourself, nothing will get done. Take a 10-minute break for every half hour of work you do. Eat three meals a day and get at least six hours of sleep. Make time to attend campus events, work out, or spend time with friends. These activities will allow you to relax for some time and will help you clear your mind. Do work, step away for some relaxation, and come back to it with fresh eyes.

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