ACE your exams with this study technique
A lot of people ask us, what can I be doing RIGHT NOW as an underclass to maximize my college admissions chances.
One thing you can do that will help set you up for success is build a STRONG transcript. You can do this by taking challenging classes (read my recent blog here) and getting great grades!
But getting all A's and aceing your exams is hard, and can feel overwhelming.
Luckily, there’s a time-tested strategy that can help you make the most of your study sessions and ace those exams: the Pomodoro Technique!!
What is the Pomodoro Technique?
The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. The concept is simple: work in focused intervals, traditionally 25 minutes, followed by a short break. Each interval is called a "Pomodoro," named after the tomato-shaped kitchen timer Cirillo used during college. After four Pomodoros, you take a longer break.
Why the Pomodoro Technique Works
Boosts Focus and Productivity: By breaking study time into manageable chunks, the Pomodoro Technique helps you maintain focus and avoid burnout. Knowing you have only 25 minutes before a break can make studying feel less overwhelming.
Prevents Procrastination: The ticking timer can create a sense of urgency, making it easier to get started and stay on task. It’s a way to trick your brain into thinking there’s less pressure, which can be particularly useful when you’re struggling to find motivation.
Enhances Retention: Short, intense study sessions can be more effective for retaining information than marathon cramming. The frequent breaks give your brain time to rest and process what you’ve learned.
Encourages Consistency: With regular intervals of work and rest, the Pomodoro Technique fosters a consistent study routine. This can help you build better study habits and keep stress levels in check.
How to Use the Pomodoro Technique for Exam Success
Plan Your Study Sessions: Before you begin, list the topics you need to cover. Break these down into smaller tasks that can be accomplished in 25 minutes. For example, if you’re studying for a biology exam, you might plan a Pomodoro for reviewing cell structure and another for practicing biological processes.
Set Your Timer: Use a timer to keep track of your Pomodoros. There are many apps available specifically designed for this, but any timer will do. The key is to stick to the 25-minute work and 5-minute break routine.
Stay Focused: During your Pomodoro, focus solely on the task at hand. Put that phone away! If you think of something else you need to do, jot it down and save it for later.
Take Regular Breaks: Use the 5-minute breaks to stretch, hydrate, or do something relaxing. After four Pomodoros, take a longer break (15-30 minutes). This helps recharge your brain and keeps your study sessions productive.
Reflect and Adjust: At the end of your study session, review what you’ve accomplished. If you find some topics need more time, adjust your plan accordingly. The Pomodoro Technique is meant to be flexible.
Tips for Success
Stay Flexible: If you’re deeply into a topic and want to continue past the 25 minutes, do it! The Pomodoro Technique is a guide.
Create a Conducive Study Environment: Find a quiet, comfortable place to study. Minimize distractions and have all your study materials ready before you start your sessions.
Track Your Progress: Use a study journal or app to track your Pomodoros and progress. This can help you see how much you’ve accomplished and where you need to focus more.
Stay Positive: The Pomodoro Technique is a tool to help you manage your time and reduce stress. Keep a positive attitude, and remember that consistency is key.
Good luck and happy studying!!
Melina Kazanas
P.S. - Have a high-performing high schooler w/ a 3.7 GPA or higher? We'll help get them into at least one of their top 5 dream colleges...and if we don't get them into at least one of their top 5 dream colleges, you don't pay us a penny. Seriously. College admissions isn't rocket science...but it is a science. And we've cracked the code...year, after year, after year. You can learn more about our world renowned all-inclusive, start-to-finish college coaching here and to see if your family qualifies for an introductory call.
P.P.S - Our most common question is "When should we start?!" The answer is, if you truly care about giving your high schooler the best chance of college planning success, you should start NOW. 9th grade is not too early to start! 10th grade is certainly not too early to start! And 11th grade is far, far too late! (supporting data here to show just how much of an advantage you give your child by starting the process early).
