Most kids have never learned how to study, and with AP exams and standardized testing fast approaching alongside all the stressors of junior and senior year, getting started can be overwhelming.
Here are some examples of students I’ve worked with and the common study challenges they’ve faced. I’ll provide some advice based on what worked for each of the different students.
Matilda found it hard to drum up the motivation to study for her AP Biology exam. She was Zoomed out, & by the end of the day, the last thing she wanted to do was hole up in her bedroom and memorize diagrams & facts.
She also really missed the environment of studying in person with her classmates. Here were some of the ideas we came up with to make her more motivated to study.
PUT TOGETHER A REWARDS SYSTEM. This can be self-directed or with the help of your parents if they want to get onboard. Make sure the rewards are something you really want.
FIND A STUDY BUDDY. If you’re having trouble being motivated, find a friend to suffer through it with you. You don’t necessarily have to study together, but you can hold each other accountable to study during a designated time.
Blake was a rising senior who was constantly on the go. Between basketball practice, Science Olympiad, and Model UN, he almost never had a free moment to really buckle down and study for his AP exams.
TRY A STUDY SPRINT. Block off a period of time every day for as long as you feel like you can spare. It can be as quick as twenty-five minutes.