"Fit for the Test"

by: Nicôle Goulet

Sitting in the back of everyone's mind, there is a notion of how to be physically fit. In order to reach that goal, everyone knows that one would need a daily routine and stick to it religiously in order for it to have an effect. One can have all of the fitness apparel or fitness tapes in the world and still will not gain the intended fitness capacity unless they put those items into use; therefore, people need to sweat and have a consistent routine to get good results. The same goes with studying and doing homework. Make effective studying a normal daily routine and you will only get good results: good grades, happy teachers, and a happy YOU.

Starting with your worst subject first and completing your study session with your easiest will leave you satisfied with good, quality (and finished) work. You have to set your mind and concentrate on your work to obtain these results. Like in fitness, where you have to say “no” to the candy and fried foods, here you must say “no” to distractions like phone calls or t.v. so that goals can be achieved. Set time aside to tell your mom or dad to hold all calls because you are hard at work and don't want to break your train of thought. Call your friends later and say “yes” to quiet time, like when your little sister or brother is at their friend's house and won't bother you. Say “yes” to free time when you have nothing to do… do homework in that time so you don't have to worry about it later.

By doing this everyday, you'll find yourself not cramming the night before a test. You'll feel comfortable when preparing for a test because it will be just a review for you. If you have been studying consistently everyday then you don't have to go into that intense studying mode. Time management is a factor to focus on. If you have no homework, set an hour or two aside to read and review notes to keep up on with classes.

Before going to the gym, people would prepare themselves by bringing their gym pass, sneakers, and gym clothes. Without these items it will not be possible to work out. When you don't work out one day, due to being unprepared, you don't gain the consistency of physical training; therefore, there are no results. Without your notebook, pen, or that time you could have used reviewing before class, to prepare for that day, then you may lose consistency in studying. This type of work should be done regularly everyday so that your skills develop and you'll be fit for the test.

© 2008 Maine Educational Talent Search (METS)

The Maine Educational Talent Search Project is funded entirely by the US Department of Education. The grant award for 2007-2008 is $510,255.

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This site last revised 3/3/2008 Comments or questions? Send email to Steve Visco (visco@umit.maine.edu)