Tests aren’t easy, and often require lots of time and attention to prepare for, but there are easy ways to slim down the studying and ace the exams. Just try out these simple tips and enjoy the benefits of good grades.

Take a break:

No, that doesn’t mean a two hour nap or heading out with friends to see the next Star Wars movie. It simply means stand up every once in awhile, stretch, visit the bathroom, make a snack. Five to ten minutes should be enough time to de-stress and snap back to reality. It’s not healthy to stare at something for too long, even a book, so take this much needed break. Just don’t get distracted and forget to go back to studying.

Study sprints:

Set a timer for twenty minutes and focus on one subject for the whole twenty. When the timer goes off, take a five minute bathroom or cookie break as a reward and then continue for another twenty minutes. It can be strenuous, but the benefits of passing the exam are worth so much more than a six pack or buff biceps.

To bring:

It’s good to be extra prepared in class, so stockpile these important supplies in a backpack:

• Several pencils
• A water bottle
• Small snacks (granola bars, apple slices, crackers)
• A light sweatshirt
• A good book

Just turn electronics off or leave them in a locker. It’s not worth the risk of having them taken, or worse, having a test revoked due to suspicion of cheating.

Wardrobe:

Dress to impress. Studies show that the more effort put into a morning routine, the more aware and prepared the person is during the test.

Exercise:

Take some time to sweat out the worries. Thirty minutes minimum is needed to relax and de-stress. If a gym membership or a safe place to go for a jog isn’t a possibility, just turn on some music and dance. YouTube a routine or walk the dog.

Study groups:

One of the best ways to learn is by playing games. Create a small study group and meet up somewhere nearby and local, such as a coffee shop. Prepare flashcards or other information that you need to memorize and quiz each other and make it a race and see who knows the most. If no one knows, the person doing the quizzing gets the point and a new quizzer is selected. Whoever wins gets their pick of a latte or hot cocoa from the shop.

Juniors Kristian Jimenez and Lea Fanella share their own ideas for great ways to study.

“When I study for a test, I like to study old homework, test packets, review guides, or go online to find helpful resources,” said Fanella.

Jimenez agrees with her homework tip.

“I find questions which haven’t been done on old homework, as well as look over review guides. After I’ve finished studying,” Jimenez said. “I try to relax, let the information soak in, and get a good night’s sleep.”

Now, give these tips a try and bask in the glory of great grades and free time with these wonderful study solutions.