Survival Skills for MBA Exams
Pick a good study space. Although it would be ideal for MBA students to study in their room in sweats with snacks nearby, living with roommates can make it hard to focus. MBA students need to make sure they pick a study space that is quiet and free of distractions, whether that’s a café or a quiet corner of the library.
Study with friends. Studying with friends who have different expertise is a great way of understanding difficult material. It also gives each student a chance to teach one another, thus, further cementing the lessons. Take advantage of study groups and participate with them as often as you can throughout the year.
Plan study bime. It is important to make a study schedule, keeping in mind how many exams need to be studied for and how much study time needs to be spent on each one. This way, it’s easier to focus on one project at a time and avoid becoming overwhelmed. Try having all deadlines and exam dates on a calendar with appropriate reminders and specific task lists for each item.
Eat healthy. It can be tempting for MBA students to turn to junk food when bogged down with studying, but greasy pizza and fast food are only going to encourage lethargy. Instead, munch on naturally energizing foods, like a protein bar or fresh fruit. Eating the right amount of protein will provide the energy needed to power through a library study session.
Get plenty of sleep. Although many MBA students spend finals week studying at the library until the wee hours of the morning, sacrificing sleep is never a good idea. Your brain needs rest. It is more difficult to focus and absorb information when the brain is exhausted.
What’s done is done. MBA students need to remember not to obsess over finished exams or compare answers with other students. It is best to move onto the next task and worry about the grades when they come in. It’s important for MBA students to keep in mind that every course during an MBA program is a chance to build a relationship that could last a lifetime. If students get so wrapped up in final grades, they may not recognize the need to celebrate and solidify the relationships they’ve built during a tough semester.
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