i have found that studying with a small, focused group of people helps. Sometimes if you dont understand something and they do, they can explain it in a way that makes it click for you. Also I agree that you really should start studying a little earlier...dont get me wrong i can be easily swayed from studying..but you just have to make yourself. maybe if you try to break it down, i have started doing one topic per day, keep looking at that one topic until you understand it, then the next day move on to the next. also, ask the teachers for help..if they are anything like mine they are MORE than willing to help you out...that is why they chose that profession. I hope this will help a little. I wish you all the luck!