For people with a business-related degree, there are a variety of career opportunities to pursue – from technology and healthcare, to marketing and finance.

Here is a look at some of the fastest growing business jobs today and how you can get started building your career:

1. Accountant

Accountants are vital to the success of any business and enjoy excellent job security as a result. Employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 10 percent from 2016 to 2026, adding 139,900 new jobs, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

As an accountant, you can pursue different career specialties depending on your interests. For example, public accountants typically work for accounting firms, performing audits, preparing taxes and provide consulting for individuals, corporations and government organizations. Internal or management accountants perform these activities for their employer, and are also involved in analyzing financial data and strategic planning.

To become an accountant, you need strong mathematical skills and attention to detail. Most entry-level positions require a bachelor’s degree in accounting, but you can also gain experience as bookkeeper if you have an associate degree. This is a good option if you want to get into the workforce faster, but you’ll likely have to continue your education if you want to advance your accounting career.

2. Market Research Analyst

Employment for market research analysts is projected to grow 23 percent between 2016 and 2026, making it one of the fastest-growing career fields today. As a market research analyst, you’ll study consumers’ buying habits to help businesses make more strategic decisions about how they market their products and services. Market research analysts can work for marketing agencies, research companies, colleges, corporations and even government agencies.

You can become a market research analyst by earning your bachelor’s degree in marketing, data analytics or a related field.

3. HR Specialist

Human resources (HR) professionals help organizations manage their greatest assets – their people. As an HR specialist, you can gain experience in basic HR practices, such as administering payroll and benefits, employee relations, recruiting and training. Successful HR professionals have strong communication and people skills and enjoy creative problem solving.

To begin your human resources career, you’ll need either an associate or bachelor’s degree in human resources. Certain specialties or employers may require a master’s degree with a concentration in human resources. Certification is also highly desirable by employers, and most upper-level human resource professionals have at least one certification.

4. Financial Analyst

If you’re a numbers person and like analyzing trends over time, you might enjoy a career as a financial analyst. Financial analysts help their clients make decisions about when to buy and sell investments and advise on economic trends and company strategy. Most professionals in this field work for financial services and insurance companies.

To begin a career in finance, you’d need to earn a bachelor’s degree in business management. Many financial analysts go on to earn a master’s degree in business administration and pursue additional specialized certifications.

5. Data Scientist

Data scientists use data to inform strategic decision making, and they often have advanced degrees or a background in computer science, math, statistics or economics. Their skills can be applied to a number of different industries, including finance, public safety, healthcare and government.

Earning a bachelor’s degree in data analytics is a good way to jumpstart your career as a data scientist. Pursuing graduate-level education, such as an MBA in Data Analytics, can help you advance to leadership and management roles. Many data scientists also specialize within a particular business function, such as finance or marketing, using data to support decision-making.

6. Project Manager

Every business needs effective project managers to oversee teams, assignments, deliverables and deadlines. With a bachelor’s degree in project management, you can prepare for entry-level roles in a variety of different industries and environments, from information technology to construction.

With experience, project managers can advance to upper-management positions, such as general manager, department manager, team leader, operations manager, and more. Many project managers also choose to specialize within one industry, and may pursue industry-specific project management certifications, such as the CompTIA Project + to further differentiate themselves in the workforce.

7. Operations Manager

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that there will be 27-percent employment growth for operations research analysts through 2026, nearly four times the average growth of all occupations. Operations analysts help companies solve complex business problems, such as setting competitive prices for products and services or making decisions about how to allocate resources. These professionals are in high demand because companies are increasingly relying on new technologies to make data-driven decisions that can improve cost-savings and efficiencies. 

A bachelor’s degree in data analytics provides a strong foundation for a career as an operations analyst, with the potential to advance to management positions as you gain experience. Many operations managers also hold an MBA.

8. Management Consultant

Management consultants or management analysts help businesses find ways to improve efficiencies and cut costs. Employment for management consultants is expected to grow by 14 percent through 2026, adding more than 100,000 new jobs. Some management consultants work on a contractual basis and can be self-employed, while others work for large consulting firms. They can also specialize in certain industries, such as human resources or healthcare. To become a management consultant, you need a strong business background and exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills. A bachelor’s degree in business management can help you prepare for a career in this growing field.

9. Healthcare Manager

Healthcare organizations have a growing need for competent and capable leaders to oversee health and patient services. Healthcare managers understand the business of healthcare and are instrumental in helping hospitals, small practices, insurance companies and a variety of other institutions navigate the changing healthcare environment. Employment for medical and health services managers is expected to grow by 20 percent through 2026.

Enrolling in a healthcare management online bachelor degree program will help you gain the business skills you need to succeed in a management role in the healthcare field, and earning an MBA in Healthcare Management can open the door to more advanced leadership roles.

Some students choose to enroll in a bachelor’s program after completing a certificate, diploma or associate program in a healthcare discipline, such as medical assisting.

Radiologic technologist is one of the most in-demand healthcare careers today with 19,000 new jobs expected by 2028, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. As a critical member of the medical imaging team, radiologic technologists work alongside doctors and nurses to perform X-ray exams and other diagnostic imaging procedures, which can be vital in diagnosing certain medial conditions as well as preventing future illness.

A career as a radiologic technologist also offers opportunities for specialization and advancement, making it a good choice for those looking to begin their career in the healthcare field.

Still not sure if radiologic technology is the right path for you? Keep reading to learn more about all the benefits this career offers.

Why should I become a radiologic technologist?

A career as a radiologic technologist is an excellent choice for anyone who is interested in the healthcare field, loves working with technology, and has a passion for helping others. Here are five reasons to consider a career as a radiologic technologist:

1. Employment opportunities are only growing

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), projects 9% employment growth for radiologic technologists in the next 10 years, which is faster than the average growth for all occupations. As the baby boomer population ages, conditions such as cancer and Alzheimer’s disease might become more prevalent. Medical imaging technology is useful for diagnosing these conditions, among many others, and radiology technologists are needed to assist in the process.

Due to the strong job market and the possibility of continued career advancement, radiologic technologist was ranked the #27 Best Healthcare Support Job for 2019 by U.S. News & World Report.

2. This is not a typical “office job”

Instead of sitting in front of a computer all day, radiologic technologists have a very active and involved job. Most work in a hospital or outpatient medical center, and some may also find work in medical or diagnostic laboratories. Radiologic technologists are almost always on the go, working with all types of people and various medical situations. They also often work on several different tasks in one day, and that variety keeps things interesting. There is no time for boredom in this role!

3. You won’t have to spend a long time getting your degree

To become a radiologic technologist, you will need an associate degree in radiologic technology. Herzing offers this program at its Orlando campus. Both in-class work and clinical experience are required as part of the degree program, and students typically must pass a certification exam from the state to complete their degree.

Most students can finish their associate degree program in two years and be ready to enter the workforce as soon as they complete the certification exam. Bachelor and graduate certificate programs can help radiologic technologists advance their careers, but are not required for most entry-level roles.

4. You have opportunities for advancement

The field of radiologic technology has many opportunities for growth and advancement. As you gain experience, you can choose to specialize in areas such as mammography, MRI, or cardiovascular imaging. Some of these roles might require additional education or certification, but they can also help increase your earning potential as well.

According to the BLS, the median salary for a radiologic technologist was $59,520 as of May 2018, though the highest paid 10% earned more than $99,180.

5. You will make a difference every day

Working in healthcare means that you can make a difference in someone’s life every day. When people come into a hospital or a medical clinic, they’re often nervous or scared. With the right bedside manner, you can turn their attitude around and make the visit much more comfortable for them. Diagnostic imaging scans can also help identify serious conditions early on, which could mean the difference between life and death for some patients. As a radiologic technologist, you play a role in ensuring your patients live longer, healthier lives.

Interested in learning more? Check out our radiologic technology degree program and find out how you can get started on your career today!

Feeling stressed is normal for college students, but did you know that regular stress can negatively affect your health? About 45% of college students say that they experience stress “more than average,” which is not a statistic to celebrate. Of those students, almost 90% said they felt overwhelmed at least once in the last year, according to the American College Health Association (ACHA).

With the right techniques, however, stress can be adequately managed so it doesn’t disrupt your day-to-day life.

What causes stress?

There are three common triggers for student stress:

• Social triggers, or those relating to maintaining relationships, social life or simply adjusting to a new environment. Examples could include competition between peers, meeting other’s expectations or social anxiety.
• Academic triggers, or those relating to school commitments. Academic stress could be caused by daunting assignment deadlines, challenging coursework, exams or poor time management skills.
• Daily life triggers, or those having to do with everyday issues related to family, finances or employment.

No matter what’s triggering it, stress can lead to several negative health symptoms, including poor decision-making, insomnia, reduced energy, pain, and illness. For some, stress may affect the quality of work at school and in the workplace. Stress can also cause irritableness, creating tension when interacting with others. 

Once you understand the factors that are causing your stress, you can begin taking the steps you need to manage it.

Here are seven stress management tips to try the next time you feel overwhelmed:

1) Find a support system

Identify a few family members or friends you can rely on to be your personal cheerleaders when you feel stressed. They can be a valuable resource, lifting you up, encouraging you and providing advice or a new perspective when needed.

2) Exercise 

Regular physical activity is another great way to kick stress to the curb. Exercise allows your body to release endorphins that send positive messages to your brain to improve your mood and help you feel relaxed. Finding time to exercise, even if it’s only 20 minutes a day, can give your outlook a boost. So next time you feel stressed, take a walk, try yoga or hit the gym!

3) Practice time management

Whether you’re at work or in school, it can be easy to get overwhelmed when juggling multiple projects. Practicing good time management can help you get all your work done on time. Start by prioritizing what you need to accomplish, then cut out distractions like emails, phone calls and social media to help yourself remain focused. While multitasking may seem like a good strategy for getting everything done, it’s better to concentrate on one task at a time instead of dividing your attention to various tasks.

4) Keep a journal

Writing in a journal can be beneficial for organizing your thoughts and helping you process everything going on in your day-to-day life. Plus, journaling has been proven to strengthen immunity and decrease your risk of illness. If you don’t feel comfortable talking through your stressors with another person, journaling is a more private alternative. Spending just 15 to 20 minutes a day journaling can lessen stress levels.

5) Stay hydrated

Drinking water has tremendous health benefits, especially when it comes to reducing stress. In addition to staying hydrated, try treating yourself to a hot bath when you’re stressed, which can help calm the nervous system, especially with a few drops of essential oil added into the water

6) Try to stay positive!

While it’s often easier said than done, make an effort to keep a “glass half full” attitude when working through a stressful situation. If you let yourself fall victim to stress, it can completely overtake you and cause you to fall into a funk. Remaining optimistic in the midst of stress is truly the best practice.

7) Take a break to do something you love

If schoolwork is stressing you out, take a break to do something that relaxes you or makes you happy, whether that’s reading a book or listening to music. Most music streaming websites offer curated playlists that are full of calming music and natural sounds to help reduce stress. Letting your mind focus on something that relieves your stress can be beneficial to your well-being.

When it comes to dealing with stress, it’s important to find a management technique that works for you – and stick with it! We all deal with stress at some point in our lives and as hard as it may seem, you will get through it. Remember to confide in others and take time out for yourself when you’re feeling overwhelmed so that stress never has the upper hand.

Your first year as a new nurse can be exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. From dealing with patients to managing doctors, celebrating the good days and navigating the bad ones, we asked some of our recent nursing graduates for their tips on settling into your first job.

Here’s what they had to say:

1. Remember that you’re still learning

You won’t know everything when you’re first starting out, and your colleagues won’t expect you to. While your nursing program and clinical experience were good preparation for your first real nursing job, you will encounter situations that you’ve never dealt with before.

Rather than letting these moments discourage or intimidate you, use them as learning opportunities. If you make a mistake, try to understand where you went wrong and make an effort to do better the next time. Your colleagues and supervisors will recognize your efforts to improve, and they’ll be willing to help you learn, says Gary Rhinehart, a recent nursing graduate of Herzing University.

“The most important way you improve your confidence as a nurse is to get better at the things that you struggle with most,” he adds.

“If you continually practice the skill that makes you feel the least confident, I guarantee you’ll slowly get better at it. By practicing and honing your skills, you will gradually build confidence in yourself and your abilities.”

2. There’s no such thing as a stupid question

Even if you’re worried you’ll look stupid in front of your team, you’re better safe than sorry when it comes to asking questions. A simple mistake can quickly turn into a life-or-death situation, so if you’re not sure about what to do next, it’s better to ask.

“Know how to keep your patient safe and never assume anything,” says Herzing nursing graduate Shenese Stewart. “Always ask questions, especially if it’s something you need to know to stay safe.”

3. You might not find your specialty right away – and that’s okay

It might take you some time to figure out what kind of nurse you want to become. There are a lot of different career paths you can pursue, from the ER to oncology. If you find you chose the wrong position, don’t be afraid to look something that’s a better fit.

“I recently had a colleague say she felt like a failure because she did not like the hospital setting, and people were telling her that the hospital is ‘real nursing.’ That is simply not true. It’s important to find the path you love, or you will be miserable and ineffective,” Stewart advises.

4. Working on different units can help you gain experience

If you’re not sure whether you’re in the right role, take advantage of the opportunity to explore different nursing environments and specialties. You can accomplish this through job shadowing or volunteering for the hospital float pool.

“The point of the float pool is that whenever any floor needs an extra staff member, the shift is yours if you want it. This will automatically open so many doors for you because you will not be assigned to the same unit every week,” says Herzing nursing graduate Zahra Mohammed.

“You might find yourself working in ICU one night, the ER the next night, and so on. Working the float pool is one way that you can dip your toes into all specialties and see what you like. You will eventually find something you enjoy.”

5. Soft skills will be key to your success

From establishing a rapport with patients to working alongside doctors and other members of the healthcare team, communication, teamwork and critical thinking are essential skills for new nurses. Focus on developing these in addition to your nursing skills. Doing so will help you provide a better experience for your patients and will help you form strong relationships with your colleagues.

“Your attitude, work ethic and integrity will determine your success. Your ability to be flexible and adapt to a quickly changing environment will allow you to be effective in the workplace,” says Stewart.

6. Advancing your education can help you take advantage of new opportunities

As you gain experience in the nursing field, you might discover that you’re interested in advancing your career and pursuing specific specialties, such as nurse education or advanced practice nursing. Pursuing your MSN will allow you to take advantage of these opportunities.

“I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in nursing in 2017 and it wasn’t long before I started thinking about advancing my education with an MSN,” says Joleen Brewer, who is currently enrolled in Herzing’s Family Nurse Practitioner program. “I have a passion for teaching and I wanted to do more for my patients and help them learn how to lead healthier lives. Becoming a nurse practitioner seemed like the perfect next step for me.”

It’s normal to feel nervous about starting a new job, but hopefully those first few weeks will feel a little less intimidating thanks to these insider tips from your fellow nursing graduates. Remember, this is only the beginning of your nursing career journey! The best is yet to come.

Earning your MBA is a smart career move – one that could lead to a promotion and/or a higher salary down the road. Many schools now offer specialized MBA concentrations so you can tailor your degree to meet your career goals, and there are also generalist MBA programs to consider.

All these options can leave you with a lot of questions.

• Should I go back to school for a specialized MBA or a general one?
• Which MBA concentration is the best for me?
• Should I pursue a dual-concentration?
• Wait, what does dual-concentration even mean?

It’s easy to get overwhelmed. We’re here to help you determine which MBA program is right for you.

What is an MBA?

A Master’s of Business Administration (MBA) program helps you develop the leadership, business and problem-solving skills that high-level management positions require. In general, MBA curriculums are designed to advance your critical-thinking skills and help you become more comfortable making strategic decisions. The ultimate goal is to make you a more knowledgeable and well-rounded leader.

How can an MBA help my career?

An MBA can help you advance your current career or gain the skills needed to break into a new field. According to a report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 18% of all jobs will require a master’s degree by 2022. Data from the BLS also shows that the median salary for full-time workers with a master’s degree was 19% higher than the median salary for workers with a bachelor’s degree in 2017. MBA & MBA Concentration Breakdowns: At Herzing, we offer six different MBA concentrations, a dual concentration option, and a general Master of Business Administration degree program. Let’s break down each option so you can find the program – or combination of programs – that works best for you.

1. MBA: General

The general MBA program is the basis of all MBA programs offered at Herzing. As a student, you’ll gain a solid foundation in core business and leadership concepts that extend to a variety of different industries, rather than just one in particular. If you are interested in high-level business leadership, this is a great option for you.

If there are specific industries that you would like to work in, you’ll want to consider an MBA concentration. Keep in mind that the following concentrations build off the general program, so there are a few similarities. The main difference is that you also gain specialized knowledge in addition to mastery of key business skills and concepts

2. MBA: Accounting & Finance

The accounting and finance MBA concentration prepare you for management positions in various areas of an organization, including finance and accounting departments, as well as sales, operations, and more. Many of your courses will focus on accounting skills and concepts, so you’ll be prepared to take the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) exam from the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) upon graduation. This certification demonstrates your mastery of accounting principles and can help set you apart from other candidates for advanced positions.

3. MBA: Data Analytics

A concentration in data analytics can prepare you for strategic leadership roles, or allow you to gain new skills needed to succeed in an increasingly data-driven business environment. Through the program, you’ll gain experience working with analytics software and learn best practices for deriving actionable insights from data. You’ll also have a chance to practice and hone your presentation skills so that you can effectively communicate those insights to others.

Additionally, graduates of the MBA – Data Analytics program are prepared to earn their Associate Certified Analytics Professional (aCAP) certification, which can serve as an important differentiator in the workforce. If you have a passion for using data to inform better business decisions, this concentration is an excellent focus for you.

4. MBA: Healthcare Management

If you are a nurse or other healthcare professional looking to transition from clinical practice to management, consider an MBA concentration in healthcare management. You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of legal, ethical and compliance issues in healthcare, as well as modern healthcare issues, trends and tools. As a graduate, you’ll be prepared for leadership roles in healthcare administration, healthcare policy or health information management, and potentially even C-suite roles like Chief Operations Office or Chief Compliance Officer.

5. MBA: Human Resources

If you already have a background in HR, an MBA concentration in Human Resources can help you take the next step in your career. In addition to mastering core business principles and learning the fundamentals of leadership, you’ll learn how to develop HR strategies to improve an organization’s performance and increase employee satisfaction.

6. MBA: Project Management

An MBA in Project Management can help you learn how to better lead teams of people and handle cross-functional projects so that you can deliver better results. You will also have the opportunity to earn two industry-recognized certifications: Project Management Professional (PMP) and Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA). Many hiring managers require these certifications, and they can help you gain a competitive edge in the market for high-level project management positions.

7. MBA: Technology Management

Contrary to how it sounds, this is not a master’s degree in IT. This is a degree concentration that can help further your technology career into management of IT teams and the business world they’re a part of. If you have a background in IT and are interested in an advanced position, such as IT manager, an MBA in Technology Management can help get you there. The curriculum blends a variety of technology courses, such as information security and systems analysis and design, with more business-oriented courses like human resources management and business and labor law.

8. MBA: Dual Concentration

A dual MBA concentration means that you’ve decided to choose not one, but two areas of specialization. For example, if you’re interested in technology management at a hospital, you could choose to concentrate in both Technology Management and Healthcare Management to have even more employment opportunities after graduation.

Pursuing additional specializations can help you gain a unique and competitive skill set that differentiates you from other candidates competing for the same leadership positions.

Taking the NCLEX is one of the most important milestones you will reach as a nursing student, as it is the final step in obtaining your nursing licensure. Passing the NCLEX is not only a huge accomplishment, but it also means you are officially ready to begin your nursing career!

The NCLEX has been a rite of passage for nursing students for decades. It was originally known as “the boards,” or the State Board Test Pool Examination, until The National Council of Nurses took ownership of the exam in 1982 and renamed it the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX). Another significant change in the exam’s history was the switch to a computerized test format in 1994, which is how it is administered today.

The majority of first-time takers pass the NCLEX, but it takes a lot of preparation to be successful. Because the NCLEX is very different from the other exams you will take as a nursing student, it is also important that you know what to expect on exam day.

Here are five things you need to know before taking the NCLEX:

1) There are two different exam types

There are two versions of the NCLEX, and your nursing degree will determine which version you need to take. One is the NCLEX-PN, which is specific to LPNs or those who have obtained a diploma in practical or vocational nursing. The other is the NCLEX-RN, which is for registered nurses or those who hold an associate (ASN) or bachelor’s degree (BSN) in nursing.

2) You will need an authorization to take the exam

In order to take the NCLEX, you will need an Authorization To Test, also known as an ATT letter. To receive this authorization, you need to contact your nursing regulatory body (NRB) and apply. They will review your application an award you an ATT through your email. This authorization will expire after about 90 days; if you don’t take the test within that timeframe, you will have to reapply.

3) You have several hours to complete the exam

On test day, you will go to your designated testing center, where you will be assigned a computer. The test ranges from 75 to 265 questions, but the number of questions you are required to complete depends on how you answer each previous question. As a result, no two tests are exactly the same. Additionally, 15 questions are considered “trial questions” and will not be counted in your final score. You will have up to six hours to complete the RN exam and up to five hours to complete the PN exam, including two optional break periods.

4) The exam focuses on four key subject areas

The NCLEX is split up into four major subject areas. These areas include:

• Safe and effective care management
• Health promotion and maintenance
• Psychological integrity
• Physiological integrity (the largest section)

In 2016, questions pertaining to culture and spirituality were added to the exam and up-to-date study materials include this theme. You will need to be very knowledgeable in each of these areas to successfully complete the exam.

5) Expect a variety of question types

The NCLEX includes three different levels of questions, which are meant to challenge students and make them apply their critical thinking skills to nursing practice. The first are general knowledge questions, which are typically delivered in multiple-choice format. Then, there are a number of analysis and application questions, which may include charts, tables or graphic images. Level three questions are the most difficult and require students to apply facts, processes, and rules to find the answers. They are often delivered in an open-ended format. You can expect the majority of your questions to fall in categories two and three.

After successfully passing the exam, you will receive your nursing license, which is only valid only in the state you took the exam. If you happen to become employed in another state, there is a process by which you can transfer your license. Find more information on transferring your license here.

To register for the NCLEX and for more information about authorization, eligibility, and to find a testing center near you, visit https://portal.ncsbn.org/. You can also find more information on obtaining your ATT and get the testing process started.

Lastly, if you are planning on taking the NCLEX soon, be sure to check out these NCLEX study tips. We wish you the best of luck, and don’t worry – you’ve got this!

Creating a study guide is one of the best ways to prepare for an exam and improve your test results. In fact, a study by Stanford researchers found that applying a strategic approach to studying helped college students improve their exam scores by an average of one-third of a letter grade.

Your study guide is more than just a collection of your notes from class. It’s a personal study tool, customized to fit your unique learning style and studying routine.

Check out these tips to create a study guide that will give you a deeper, more meaningful understanding of the material on your next exam.

1. Start by organizing your notes

You’ll want to organize the information in your study guide in a way that makes sense to you. The most common type of study guide is called a “summary sheet.” To create a summary sheet, you will organize your notes conceptually.

• Step 1: Divide your paper into two columns, with the right column having significantly more space than the left column.
• Step 2: On the right side of your paper, list the most important concepts or terms from each chapter or lesson that will be covered on the test. Underneath each item, provide a summary or description. You can also include examples from the text that will help you remember the material.
• Step 3: On the left side of your paper, write cue questions that correspond to the information on the right. Then, cover up the right side of the paper and see if you can answer the questions on the left.

The summary sheet method forces you to review your notes as you transcribe them into your study guide, making it more likely that you’ll remember the information later. By quizzing yourself on the questions in the left column, you can determine which concepts and terms you need to review further.

There are several other ways to organize a study guide and the best method will depend on the content you’re studying. For example, if you’re creating a study guide for an upcoming history exam, ordering your notes chronologically and creating a timeline of events will help you understand the historical context behind the information.

These study guides look similar to notes taken using the Cornell method.

2. Practice essay questions

You can prepare yourself for possible essay questions by practicing answers to them beforehand. That way, in case a similar question comes up on the exam, you’ll have a well thought-out answer ready to go. You can try to anticipate what these questions might be using past exams or quizzes, or you can copy the review questions from the textbook, which are often at the end of every chapter. While memorizing the material is one benefit of using a study guide, practicing essay questions will help you make sure you can apply your knowledge in a written response.

3. Make a vocabulary section

If there is a vocabulary section on the exam, dedicate a portion of your study guide to key terms and definitions. Even if there’s not a vocabulary section on the exam, it’s still important to know key terms for when they appear in the context of a question. Knowing your vocabulary will help you feel more comfortable using important terms in your essay responses, which shows your instructor that you have a strong grasp on the exam material.

Concept maps are a great way to study vocabulary, especially if you are a visual learner. To create a concept map, draw a shape around key terms and then draw lines to establish its relationship with other words or concepts.

Visual example would be good here Visually mapping out the relationships between different vocabulary words not only helps you remember definitions, it also helps you establish important connections between key terms and concepts.

4. Handwrite it – don’t type it

It may not seem like a big deal, but it’s critical that you handwrite your study guide as opposed to creating it on a computer. While it’s often easier and faster to type something up, writing by hand requires you to slow down and think about the information you are transcribing. This gives you the added benefit of actually absorbing the information you need to study while you are in the process of creating your guide. If you do need to type out your study guide for whatever reason, it’s recommended that you print it out after you are finished. Reading a document on your computer screen won’t help you retain information and you’ll be prone to more distractions from the internet, such as social media notifications or emails.

5. Make it personal

One of the biggest benefits of creating your own study guide is that you can tailor it to fit your learning style. Most people fall within five different types of leaning styles: visual, auditory, reading/writing and kinesthetic. As a result, two students studying for the same test might have very different study guides.

As an example, reading/writing learners may benefit from creating a more traditional study guide, such as the summary sheet, and repeatedly rewriting the material. Visual learners will benefit more from color-coding and creating concept maps in order to create meaningful connections between key concepts.

Studying for exams can seem intimidating, but with the right approach, you can increase your chances of success. Creating a personalized study guide will help you review the information in a way that is most helpful to you and can help you improve your test scores as a result.