Photo Source: ‘Study’, by Pixabay
After a well-deserved Winter break, it is important to reflect over your past year and get prepared for the new term. This article will ensure you are ready to face what is to come in the new term.
Returning to university can be stress heavy, especially with January exams creeping up as well as overloading assignment deadlines. This is why starting the new term on the right foot will increase your feelings of security and reduce your feelings of stress.
Here is a guide on how to get organised and prepared for the new term
Reflection is Key:
Firstly, note down which techniques and strategies, over the past year or term, have been useful and effective for you academically. Additionally, take note of the ones which have not been helpful, and what you would like to do differently. It doesn’t have to look perfect, just roughly note them down, and that is your reflection done. According to the Harvard Business Review, making reflection a habit “separates extraordinary professionals to mediocre ones.” So not only can you do this before the start of term, but you can repeat it in the middle and at the end, gaining ultimate reflection skills.
Get Ahead on Reading:
We all know how time consuming reading can be, so why not get ahead of the game? Make a list of your compulsory readings, and highlight the most important ones down to the least. Find a quiet space to study, and at your own pace you can tick them off. You are now two steps in to starting the term on the right foot.
Revision Techniques:
If you need any new revision techniques ideas, below is a list of many you can try out, to see if they will work for you.
- Flashcards: you can make them out of paper, card, or digitally through apps such as Quizlet, Anki, and Brainscape
- Investing in a Whiteboard: they are perfect for brain dumps, and breaking down ideas
- Teaching Others: this can help you gain better understanding of a topic
- Mind maps: are a great way to take note of your ideas effectively
- The Pomodoro Technique: 20 minutes of consistent work, followed by 5 minutes breaks; ensures that you maintain a focused mindset
- Spaced repetition: this is an effective technique with flashcards to increase long-term memory
Having Balance is Essential:
Most importantly, a new term can be overwhelming so, in order to start on the right foot, you must prioritise self-care, this way the steps above can be maximised, and you can feel more prepared than ever.
Remember to have your down time, where you can put your feet up and relax. Dedicating time to do the things you love and enjoy, can make the new term seem a little less daunting.
Wishing you an organised and happy new term.
Edited by Sophia Tilbury
