No Cram Solution by Tess

No Cram Solution by Tess - May 2016 Scholarship Essay

Throughout the three years of high school I have tentatively encountered, many people, young and old alike, have popped up with claims of life-altering study hacks that will guarantee an “A” on my next final. Over time these study hacks started to pile up in my mind. As I began to sift through this endless pile of advice for finals, I found that very few stood to the test, literally. Through this bumbling trial and error, I could tell you easily what not to do for finals : “cramming.” On the other hand, only one study habit really helps me prepare for the gloomy finals. The only study habit that I continually and whole-heartedly believe in is that of relaxation.

Now, I’m not saying to not study at all or to place one’s textbooks under his or her pillow as he or she sleeps. Instead, I believe in stress-free studying well in advance of finals. This advancement could range from a few days to a full week of studying, depending on the course or difficulty in the subject. Then the night before, one can take time to relax and unwind one’s mind and body. I recommend listening to music, catching up on the latest tv show, knitting, yoga, reading for fun, chewing gum, painting, or staring at the ceiling. Basically, I support anything that allows one to unwind and become in a zen mode before finals.

Personally, I believe in this method because I have dealt with major test anxiety in the past. It was especially present in my upper-level classes in which the teacher liked to speak about how failure is not an option and time management is the only way you can pass his class. Which is mainly where this concept of relaxation originated from. In studying well in advance, one allows the needed information to move from the short-term memory to his or her long-term memory so that it is readily on hand in time for the big day. Studying in advance also allows for time to relieve any doubts or insecurities about the material. One could ask his or her teacher any questions days before the finals. The extra day of relaxation before finals can help to create happier moods and allows one to gain confidence and stop any pre-test anxiety.

Although others may not find this form of studying to be as productive as it is for me, I know when it comes to finals, this is the only study hack that allows me to be at my full potential in any class. I constantly follow this no fear concept and it has not failed me yet, unlike the infamous textbook under the pillow or listening to lectures as I’m sleeping. So as one is searching for the perfect way to study, I suggest the relaxation plan.