Need help!
 

I have no idea what I'm doing here but I think I may be consuming too many calories :( I don't like the calculators! Can someone help me please?

I'm 5'6"
21 years old (female)
light activity level
I weigh 213

My short term goal is to lose 7-8 lbs. by my birthday (April 26). I am currently eating 1,700 to 1,800 cals. I exercise twice a week. How many calories should I be consuming to lose that amount of weight by easter?

According to the freedieting.com calculator you need to eat 1,925 calories/day to lose a pound per week, meaning you would lose 7-8 pounds by your birthday (in just over 7 weeks) if you ate at that level. So if you eat 1,700 to 1,800 calories per day, you should lose at least that much. Of course, calorie calculators can only give us a rough idea as everyone's physiology is slightly different.

Freelance

also remember you should Burn more calorie than you take in a day. Otherwise you will only maintain your weight.

rather than counting calories
 

It's easier to write out your food diary. Calculate how much of it is low calories (raw fruit, veggies, plus moderate soaked nuts and seeds), then increase the percentage a little bit each day. Eventually, your body will tell you what food is making you feel wonderful, energetic and svelte, and what has to go.