Trying to recall 11 weeks of academic theory can be overwhelming, so we’ve put together our top tips for improving your memory in the lead up to the exam period.
Stay active.
We all know that regular exercise is good for your body, but did you also know it helps your brain stay sharp? Going for a walk, going to the gym or playing team sports stimulates the growth of muscle cells, keeping both your mind and body in good shape. According to a recent study, even just 20 minutes of exercise improves memory function.
Organise your study space.
Make sure your study space is organised. A messy study space can equal a messy mind, so set yourself up for a productive study session. This will help you relax and stay motivated – key elements to improve your memory and concentration.
Remove temptation.
You are more likely to remember what you need to know for your exam(s) if your desk is distraction-free. So do yourself a favour and improve your ability to retain important course content by putting your phone away while you are studying. It can also be a good idea to ask a friend or family member to change your social media passwords for the exam period.
Draw, write, colour.
Writing things down is a great way to consolidate what you have learnt. Get creative. Buy a new pack of highlighters and go crazy with graphs, tables and flow charts. Mind maps are a highly effective way of getting information in and out of your brain, and are brilliant for memory recall. Putting information on paper means you can organise material in a way that helps you remember it. Do what works for you.
Get a good night’s sleep.
Did you know that positive sleeping patterns help to improve your memory? Make sure you are getting the recommended 7 to 9 hours sleep each night so you are well rested and able to properly retain information.
Have any questions about exams? Contact your Student Advisors today.