Finals are fast approaching and many are wondering—how did this semester fly by so quickly? Finals are often a time of cramming, sleep deprivation, and poor eating. But it doesn’t have to be like that. If planned out right, finals can be transformed into a peaceful and calm experience. Okay, maybe not. But, it doesn’t have to be as stressful!
First things first: prioritize
You know which classes you’re struggling in and which ones you’re doing well in. Write out a calendar of all your final exams and pay attention to which ones come first and if you have multiple exams in one day. Then write out a list of things you have to do or know for each class. Some classes may require a final paper or presentation instead of a final exam. See which classes will take the most time and use that information to create a study schedule for yourself.
Related: Make the Most of Your Time With a Great Study Routine
Get some study buddies
Remember that multiple brains are better than one, so connect with students in your classes. You might have a friend who is better at math and can help you, while you find you're better at history and can benefit their study efforts. Or you might just find it helpful to be surrounded by other people who are studying as well. If you study better alone, though, study alone! Some people prefer company while they study, while others need to be alone to concentrate. Know yourself!
Know how you study best
Knowing yourself doesn't only apply to studying alone or with friends. If you study best hanging upside down from an exercise bar, then, by all means, study that way. I imagine you don't, but who knows? The point is to figure out how you study best. My only reminder is not to study too much and get caught up in the depression plague that seems to hang over college campuses during finals week. Eat healthy, get lots of sleep, and be your best self.
Related: Infographic: Find Your Learning Style and Study Smarter
Buy some healthy snacks
Yes, I know it's super tempting to live off coffee and ramen for a couple of weeks, but you’ll find yourself crashing quicker on those late nights. Trade the chocolate bars for trail mix and a banana, and you’ll feel yourself much more focused and sharper. Keep your dorm stocked so you also have something on hand in an emergency. Also, make sure to drink plenty of water! You should never forego your health for grades.
Sleep! It's important, people
Speaking of sacrificing your health for grades, it becomes very easy to sacrifice sleep for studying. But lack of sleep is only going to hinder you during your actual test. It doesn’t make sense to stay up all night studying just to fall asleep during the exam, plus cramming the night before the test has been proven to not work. Sleep will also help you retain more information.
Find a good study spot
If you know you tend to fall asleep studying in your bed, don’t study there! A desk with a table and chair is normally the best way to stay focused. Most college libraries have desks that are shaped like little cubicles so you can form your bubble of “do not disturb.” Don’t dress too comfortably either, because that will probably lead to a surprise mid-study nap.
Related: Video: Exploring the Top 3 Study Spots on Campus
Studying for finals doesn't have to seem like a daunting, insurmountable thing. It's about reminding you of all the hard work you've done and the things you've learned along the way. With a good game plan using these tips and a consistent study schedule, you can conquer these exams and move on to a well-deserved break.
There's more advice where this comes from! Get through any high school or college exam or assignment with Our Best Advice for Homework, Studying, and Tests.
