How to study for a test the night before
Cramming isn't the best way to learn, but sometimes it's the night before and that's where you are. Here's how to make the evening count.
1. Start with what you don't know
Skim the topics the test covers and sort them into three piles: know it, sort of, no idea. Spend most of the evening on the middle pile, where a little work makes the biggest difference.
2. Test yourself instead of rereading
Rereading feels productive but doesn't stick well. Trying to remember something, then checking, does. Cover your notes and explain each topic out loud, use flashcards, or do practice questions.
3. Work in short blocks
Study for 25 to 30 minutes, take a five-minute break away from your screen, and go again. Put your phone in another room for the blocks.
4. Practise the way you'll be tested
- Multiple choice: practise picking between close options and say why the wrong ones are wrong.
- Written answers: answer past questions in full sentences, against the clock.
- Maths and science: do problems without looking at worked examples first.
5. Sleep
Sleep helps your brain hold on to what you studied. An all-nighter usually costs more than the extra hours give you, so stop at a sensible time.
6. A quick review in the morning
Ten minutes with your flashcards or your “sort of” list at breakfast is enough to warm up. Don't start new topics.
Next time: spread it out
Short sessions spread over the week before a test beat one long one. Even three 20-minute sessions make the night before much calmer.
How Stardo helps
- Make flashcards in Stardo, and it brings each card back right before you'd forget it.
- With Plus, Nova makes flashcards and a practice test from your notes and past work, and the study planner puts short sessions on your calendar before each test.