Finals are the most stressful part of the semester. It’s the last chance to pick your grades back up (and yourself) and end the semester off right! We probably all told ourselves we’d study and get ahead over fall break and I’m betting it didn’t happen, but no need to stress, we have two more weeks to prepare and kick but! Following these tips can make the world of the difference.
1. Start early
As easy as it sounds we are all guilty of procrastinating. We tell ourselves “oh I’m fine there are two more weeks” and before you know it tomorrow is your final. Starting ahead of schedule and not cramming all in one night and has proven better performance
2. Create a study schedule
PLAN, PLAN, PLAN, and then thank me later. Writing out what you need to study, for how long, and when exams are will help relieve stress as well as keep you on track and prepared with all the curriculum that you need to know.
3. Organize group study sessions
Studying in groups can be helpful, you hold yourself accountable as well as others. Also, sometimes others know more information than you and pulling brains together can make you all stronger!
4. Take breaks
No one is able to memorize or comprehend all material at once. Balance is important, not only for your physical health but also mental. Studies have shown you are more productive when you follow the pattern of studying for 50 minutes then taking a 10 minute break.
5. Attend review sessions
Most TA’s or professors or even students hold review sessions where they offer vital information on the exam
6. Study things not on the study guide
There is no such thing as over prepared. Study guides aren’t always comprehensive, they are most likely just suggestion of the main concepts to Learn. A study guide is exactly what it sounds like, a guide, follow the path and study beyond it!
7. Listen to music
Now I know that sounds fun but I don’t mean hip hop, rap, or country music. Spotify offers Study playlists that play stimulating music that is meant to help you stay concentrated and retain information. When I first heard this advice over the summer I thought it was total crap but I tried it out and I 100% believe it helps me focus, stay on track, and truly not stress when I am studying. I recommend it to everyone and can’t study without listening to this kind of music now
8. Stay well Rested/take care of yourself
I Know it sounds easy but we all can get caught up in our work and pressure ourselves to do good. There is a lot to be said about a good night’s sleep. It helps you stay focused, which is something you want during exams. Also, wholesome, healthy foods help stimulate your brain so make sure to steer clear of junk food that will just tire your body down and make you feel drowsy.
Happy finals and happy studying, we’re almost there!