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Exam season is right around the corner—and to make things even harder, it’s happening during the spring semester.

The weather is finally getting better, the sun is out, and all anyone wants to do is spend time outside with friends. Unfortunately... exams still need to be done.

Whether you have written exams, oral exams, final projects, or all three at once, here’s your guide to surviving the exam period at the University of ¾«¶«Ó°Òµ.

Study Smart, Not Just Hard

Pulling all-nighters and studying for 12 hours straight might feel productive, but overworking yourself usually leads to burnout faster than actual results.

Before trying new study methods, don’t forget that some classic techniques are popular for a reason:

Pomodoro Method: Study for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and repeat. Great if you struggle to stay focused for long periods.

Active Recall: Test yourself instead of simply rereading your notes. Flashcards, quizzes, and practice questions can help.

Spaced Repetition: Review material over several days instead of cramming everything the night before your exam.

Find what works for you—then stick to it.

If Traditional Methods Are Not Working...

Not everyone studies the same way. If Pomodoro timers and flashcards are not your thing, try these alternative methods:

1. Interleaving. The Mix-and-Match Method: Instead of studying one subject for hours, mix different topics in one session. For Example:

• 20 minutes on Chapter 1

• 20 minutes on Chapter 3

• 20 minutes on Chapter 2

Then repeat. Why it works: Your brain constantly has to adjust and identify different problem-solving strategies—similar to actual exam conditions where questions are mixed.

2. Dual Coding. Visual + Verbal Learning: This goes beyond simply highlighting notes. Try combining written information with visuals like:

• Diagrams

• Mind maps

• Timelines

• Rough sketches

For example, if you are studying a process, try drawing it like a simple comic while explaining it out loud. Why it works: Your brain creates multiple ways to remember the same information.

3. The Protégé Effect: Study as if you need to teach someone else. Try explaining difficult topics to:

• A friend

• Your roommate

• Your study group

• Or even an imaginary audience

If you can explain it simply, you probably understand it. This is also known as Feynman Technique.

Bonus: The Blurting Method

Read a chapter or topic once.

Then close your notes and write down everything you remember on a blank sheet of paper.

Messy notes? Perfect.

Then go back and check what you missed.

It’s fast, chaotic, and surprisingly effective.

Don’t Forget to Actually Have a Life

Studying all day without breaks is not sustainable.

Knowing when you focus best can help you create a realistic study schedule.

Morning person?

Study early and tackle your hardest tasks first. Then enjoy your afternoon:

• Go for a walk

• Grab ice cream

• Meet friends

• Spend time outside

Night owl?

Use your mornings or afternoons to relax and recharge.

Then lock in during the evening when you feel most productive.

The important thing is working with your natural rhythm instead of forcing a schedule that doesn’t fit you.

Breaks Are Productive Too

Fuel Your Brain

Taking breaks is not being lazy.

Your brain needs time to reset in order to absorb information properly.

During your breaks, try activities that actually help you recharge:

• Walking

• Going to the gym

• Stretching

• Spending time outdoors

• Any type of physical activity

Scrolling on your phone for three hours may not give your brain the same reset effect.

(We know… sometimes it happens anyway.)

We know exam season often turns into instant noodles, coffee, and random snacks at midnight.

But try your best to eat balanced meals and stay hydrated.

Food is fuel for your brain—and your concentration levels will thank you.

Final Reminder

Exam season feels endless while you are in it—but it will pass.

Do your best, take care of yourself, and remember that one difficult exam does not define your entire semester.

And when you finally submit that last assignment or leave your final exam… go enjoy that good weather. You earned it.