For many, it may seem the semester has just begun, but the hard truth is midterms are fast approaching. Focusing on keeping the mind and body healthy is a great way to prepare for midterms.
Students often take the “study long and study hard” approach to midterm prep, but what is often overlooked is the role that physical health and rest play in the brain’s ability to retain information.
Midterm season is often used as an excuse for students to avoid workouts as their days and nights are spent studying. This may actually hinder a student’s ability to do well on exams. Working out gives the mind and body the stress relief it needs. Exercise also increases concentration and
mental focus.
The nutrients the body receives also play a role in the brain’s ability to function at its highest capacity. Late night study sessions are prime times for fast food and instant noodles, but the body and brain function best when it is being fed healthier foods.
Staying hydrated is also key when it comes to keeping the mind sharp.
One of the most overlooked reasons for poor test results is a lack of sleep.
“For some reason, the natural go-to is to stay up all night cramming things in your head but that’s actually not helping you at all because you’re going to be exhausted the next day,” said Karis Mooney, sophomore business administration major.
Perhaps one of the most obvious ways to prep is to do so in advance and in a timely manner.
“The best way for me to not be stressed is to just do my work so I am not procrastinating and not staying up late. If I just get it done and plan out my schedule beforehand and stick to it,” said Cheyenne Turulis, junior psychology and Christian studies double major.
