We are about to reach the end the semester, which can only mean one thing, finals. Between exams, essays and presentations, finals week can feel overwhelming and stressful if you do not manage your time appropriately. Do not give up now! We are about to reach the end of the semester, which means we will soon be able to go home, sip hot chocolate and watch festive movies for winter break. Below are not just basic study tips to help you ace your finals, but tips to help you overcome the anxieties of the end of the semester so you can stop relating to this tweet so much and feel more positive.
- Plan
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You know that cute planner that you invested in at the beginning of the year, used for two weeks and then forgot about? It is time to take that planner back out and put it to good use. With all the assignments piling up these next couple weeks it will be nearly impossible to remember everything in your head. Take time to write down what you need to do and when you need to do it. If you are artistic then use highlighters, colored pens, or stickers to make it more aesthetically pleasing. Writing down what you need to do will help stop you from cramming everything into one night.
- Take it Day by Day
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Now is usually the time where you start stressing because you are finally visualizing all of the work you need to get done. This anxiety is normal. Although, if you want to minimize this anxiety, try to take things day by day. Do not waste time worrying when you can be working. Focus on one task at a time, one day at a time.
- Aim for the Grade
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Set a particular grade goal for the end of the semester and then check what you need to get on your final exam in order to achieve it. Usually the class syllabus explains the percentage system for each grade within the class. For example, “I need a 65% on my journalism exam in order to maintain an A.” If you only need a 65% on this exam then you most likely do not need to spend too much time studying for it. With that said, you can focus your time on other exams in which you need a higher grade for.
- Go to a Coffee Shop
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Find a study space like a coffee shop where you can feel productive. Bonus, you can also fuel up on your favorite caffeinated drink and of course hashtag it on your instagram. If a coffee shop is not your vibe then try going outside or to a library. I recommend staying away from your bed when you are studying. You will fall into a deep sleep which only the strong-minded could overcome.
- Listen to Classical Music
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If you are having trouble focusing then try listening to classical. Classical music has more health benefits than you can imagine. This genre of music releases the feel-good neurotransmitter, dopamine, in the brain. In simpler terms, it helps you feel less stressed and more relaxed which is the overall goal!
- Do Yoga
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It does not have to be anything difficult, like the scorpion pose. Start by winding down and taking some time to relax after all the work that you have been putting in. Try some simple stretches that you enjoy to relax your body. Lastly, focus in on your breathing and attempt to clear your mind.
- Decorate for the Holidays
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Take a break, put on some festive music, dance around, and hang up holiday lights. It is almost winter break so start getting into the spirit of whatever holiday you celebrate. Creating a space where you feel happy will boost productivity and give you something to look forward to after grinding out all your finals.
- Treat Yourself
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If you get a lot of work done one day make sure to reward yourself. It can be something as little as watching your favorite tv show or going out to lunch. If you are willing to spend a little extra money then maybe get your nails done or book a massage. Make time to relax, unwind, and give back to yourself.
- Get your Beauty Sleep
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I know I told you to stay away from your bed, but after you have completed your most important assignments and studies it is crucial to catch up on sleep. I do not suggest staying up until 1am to study unless you know that works for you. Start working in the morning or early afternoon so you are not cramming the night before a big exam. Set your body up in advance to feel well-rested and ready to go!
Now that you have read all my tips on how to finish the semester strong it is time to put them to good use. Stop reading all these articles, watching YouTube videos and simply start. I know you may be waiting to find a burst of motivation so here it is: you are intelligent, you are strong, you are resilient. There is no better time than the present moment, so start now.