We’re all about halfway through exams now, and a pint in the sunshine at the closest pub with outdoor seating is looking a lot more appealing than another test. Staying motivated can feel like an uphill battle, but here are some tips to help you keep going strong:
Schedule it out
An oldie but a goodie! Having a schedule for when to do what and sticking to it can help make sure that you’re padding in enough time to have downtime. A clear cut off time will mean you can plan your favourite activities, whether that be seeing friends or just unwinding with some exercise.
The Sweet Treat Technique
A classic uni student favourite: the sweet treat reward. Setting a reward at the end of getting a set amount of work done is an extremely attractive way to stay motivated. Whether it’s a piece of chocolate, a favourite snack, or a coffee from your favourite café, having something to look forward to can make study sessions more bearable. Get your friends involved and turn it into a fun group activity—go for a sweet treat run together once you’ve all finished your work.
The 9-to-5
This one might be a bit controversial since one of the joys of university life is the spontaneous schedule. However, adopting a 9-to-5 routine can significantly boost your productivity. By setting specific times to start and stop working, and including timed breaks, you create a structured environment that helps you stay focused and efficient. This approach can help you establish a work-life balance that keeps you energised and motivated throughout your exam period.
The Pretty Note Taker
This one walks a fine line – while pretty notes can be motivating, they can also become a distraction if they become the focus. To keep the balance, try enhancing your notes with new highlighter colours or post-it notes rather than rewriting them entirely in gel pen. Adding some visual appeal to your revision materials can make studying more enjoyable without taking too much time away from the actual content and even aid in information retention. A little bit of colour can go a long way in making your study sessions more engaging.
Study Party
If you’re like me, you probably find that discussing and bouncing concepts around with your peers is one of the best ways to revise. It’s amazing how much more you can grasp when you hear different perspectives and explain ideas to each other. Luckily, the University has a bunch of bookable group study spaces that are perfect for this. Setting a specific time and place for group study not only helps you focus but also makes the whole process a lot more fun. Having a designated spot for studying means you’re less likely to get distracted and more likely to stay on track. Studying in a group also means you’ve got built-in accountability buddies. It’s way harder to procrastinate when everyone around you is working hard.
The Explorer
One of the perks of attending one of the largest universities in the UK is the sheer variety of study areas available on campus. Whether you’re looking for complete silence to focus intensely or a lively space for group discussions, there’s a spot that fits your needs. As creatures of habit, we often stick to the familiar places we know and love, but when exam season rolls around, finding a seat in the main library can feel almost as challenging as the exams themselves. Exploring new areas to study can keep things fresh and interesting, which can be a huge boost to your motivation and concentration. Exploring different study spots can also help you find the perfect match for different types of study sessions. Need to memorise facts? Find a silent area with minimal distractions. Working on a group project? Look for a collaborative space with whiteboards and seating for everyone.
By incorporating these tips into your study routine, you can stay motivated and make the exam period more manageable. Remember, balancing work and relaxation is key to maintaining your motivation and achieving success in your exams. Good luck!