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Exams are upon us and it is time to start with the prep work. This is of course easier said than done when your brain is not on board. When it comes to preparing for an exam or a test, you need to understand that there are ways that work and then there are those time wasters. You can find so many tips out there these days, but there is no one shoe fits all strategy. You have to apply what works for you and what does not.

If you are working on a psychology capstone, you already know that there are so much preparation that goes in before you put pen to paper. The same applies when preparing for an exam. Try out as many tips and hacks as you can until you find your perfect set of tools. We are going to have a look at some of the most effective ways to boost your concentration before a big exam.

Music

A lot of students are into music and it is something that should not be taken away. When I refer to music in this context, I am not talking about listen to some hard beat music, unless that works for you. For the majority of students, it can be beneficial to put on some meditative music to help with concentration. It works in the same way as white noise works for babies.

Ritual

Before you sit down and study for an exam, try and come up with some kind of routine you have to follow. It might include washing your hands, getting some water and listening to a podcast. It really is up to you and what works for you. Having a ritual prepares your brain for what is about to happen. It might take a few tries until this becomes a habit, but in the end it is going to be worth it.

Hydrate

When we are tired, the first thing we might reach for would naturally be a cup of coffee or an energy drink. These caffeinated drinks might be a wrong idea at the time. Instead, you want to drink as much water as you can to ensure you stay hydrated. If you are working on a capstone project, water is going to serve you better than an energy drink.

Workout

I know that when you are tired and stressed, the last thing on your mind would be to workout. You will be surprised at the amount of energy and boost you can get from a quick 20 minute workout. Before you start your next studying session, give this hack a try.

Rosemary

Did you know that the fragrance of rosemary can help you with your concentration? It sounds a bit wacky, but it is absolutely true. Research suggests that the fragrance can help you perform better when attending to mental tasks. It is definitely something worth trying out. Place the rosemary in some boiling water and leave the cup close to where you are studying.

Breaks

Sitting at your study desk and stressing without any information being absorbed can add even more stress. Instead, get up and take a 10-minute break. This does not have to result in you losing your concentration and start procrastinating. Keep the breaks short enough to feel refreshed. Taking a break also allows your brain to absorb the information you have just covered. Psychology projects can take a lot out of a person and regular breaks are thus important.

Rewrite

One of the most effective ways to increase concentration while studying is to rewrite your own notes, by hand. Your brain actually have to recognise what you are doing and this simple act can have huge results. This method is more effective than using a computer. When typing something out, it’s fast and does not allow your brain enough time to consume the information.

Act fast

When you receive your exam timetable, start working on your study schedule immediately. Procrastination is one of the biggest problems when it comes to studying. When we have a lot to work through, it can be difficult to start, but you must. Get an early start on your studies and prevent the idea of procrastination.

Teach

Get one of your friends or family members and teach them what you already know on the subject. Use your notes so that you can look down every now and then. This might teach the listener useless information, but it does help you retain more information. Reading out load and having to think about what you are saying is effectively one of the best study hacks.

Sleep

We know that sleep is important for focus and concentration, yet many of us are still sleep deprived. Sitting up studying until hours before you should get up for school is not going to work in your favor. Instead, get a good night’s rest and tackle your books in the morning. You will be able to retain a lot more when your brain and body is rested.