With exams just around the corner, many students are confused or wondering what is the best way to prepare. Some teachers have decided to give tests and other teachers are doing projects. How you should study is dependent on what test your class will be doing as well as what works well for you. 

The hardest thing about studying is knowing what to study and how to avoid procrastination. Many teachers when asked will tell you what you need to study, and most give review guides leading up to the exam. Procrastination is a bit more difficult. What works best for some people is creating a schedule on what to study and when to study it, other people don’t like being confined to a specific time. It’s trial and error on what works best for you, but one thing that is best for everyone is setting a time limit on your phone. Phones are students’ biggest distraction and making sure you don’t have access to certain apps might convince you to begin preparing early. 

Science teacher Stephanie Carpenter gives a few suggestions for how to study for the science exams,
“I would recommend that students start early working on the review, that gives them time to go back and focus on areas that need extra attention,”  Mrs. Carpenter said.

The science department is one of the departments that have decided to give a seated exam. They have handed out a review packet to all of their students the first week of December, and the earlier you start reviewing it the better. 

English teacher Katie Killcullen gives a few tips to her freshmen to help them be successful in their first experience with exams.
“I suggest for my freshmen to review their GUM rules and notes on narrative and review essays,” she said.  “We will also have some prompts the students can use to practice writing and receive feedback on Stop Day.”

The English department has decided that some classes will have an essay exam on the test date, but others will have projects. To prepare for a timed essay the best thing you can do is review the material and ask the teachers for guidance on what to practice. 

Senior Julia Castellano has learned how to do well in exams and gives advice to underclassmen.

“Study with your friends! Ask each other questions and be willing to help where you can. Personally, I always learn the most when I’m teaching others and listening to their questions which I may not have thought of,” she said.

Julia also mentions that she faces procrastination but the trick to dealing with it is to realize that she is the one in control. She tries to allow herself enough time before exams to feel comfortable and confident with her results. 

Remember that peer tutoring is always open to students who would like some extra help or want to review certain subjects. You can sign up for peer tutoring through the SJA Quick Links folder on your laptop. Teachers are always happy to help students with preparation, so if you have any questions about a class make sure to ask them as soon as possible. The stop day on the 17th is the perfect time to talk with teachers and get everything you need before exams.