While many students have already started finals or are actually already home, us here at Cornell have not even finished classes yet. I, of course, have been doing one of my favorite stress-relief activities: listening to Hamilton (which, as we all know, absolutely deserves those 16 Tony nominations). You might be wondering now: what does Hamilton have to do with finals? Well, it is so easy to get overwhelmed during finals. The song “Ten Duel Commandments” from Hamilton inspired me to compile the ten most important things to remember during finals. So, without further ado, the Ten Finals Commandments:
1. Get enough sleep.
I know it might seem like a good idea to stay up really late working and then get up really early to keep studying, but it’s really not. And the habit of going to sleep late and waking up late is not going to help you either – particularly when you have to get up for that 9 A.M. exam. Going to sleep at a normal hour and waking up at a normal hour will be incredibly helpful for you – particularly with memorization!.
2. Maintain a balanced diet.
While this is true pretty much all the time in college, it becomes especially important during finals. When you are overly stressed, it becomes too easy to eat your feelings (we’ve all done that midnight Insomnia Cookies order). While it is okay to eat comfort food once in a while, it is also crucial to maintain a proper balance of protein, vitamins, etc. in order to keep your body and brain functioning properly.
3. Don’t study in bed.
Just do not. It is such a bad idea. I know your bed seems inviting and comfortable. I know you are definitely telling yourself, “I can totally study sitting in bed. I’ll just be a little more comfortable than at my desk or in the library.” We all know that’s not true, though. Studying in bed will lead to either a Netflix marathon or unintentional naps. Or both.
4. Limit caffeine (see #1).
I’m not telling you not to drink coffee during finals – I will definitely be drinking it frequently over the next few weeks. But just try to limit how much caffeine you drink, particularly before bed. Caffeine will not help your sleep schedule at all (trust me, I speak from experience). Also: stay hydrated!!! Drinking enough water every day will make you feel so much better.
5. Organize.
Getting all of your notes and loose papers organized will not only feel really good but will also make it easier for you to figure out exactly how to start studying for each final or start writing each paper.
6. Prioritize.
Lists are your new best friends. Making lists to prioritize what needs to get done will help you stay on track with your work and make sure you do not forget anything. And crossing out something on the list is so incredibly satisfying.
7. Vary study spaces.
Personally, I tend to have trouble working in the same place day in and day out. Even if I am staying in the same library, I try to change up where I do work each day. The change of scenery can be very beneficial to helping keep you focused!
8. Or don’t – stick with the space that works for you.
However, for some people, sticking to that one spot is perfect for them. If you feel like you are always productive when you work in that one chair at that particular table on the third floor behind the stacks, then go for it.
9. Take breaks.
You might feel like you have to keep working and working until you finish everything, but it is really important to take breaks. Even standing up, walking around outside for two minutes, and sitting back down will clear your head and help you focus. If you have been really productive, you can even reward yourself with an episode of a TV show or a longer break of some sort.
10. Remember that finals are not the end of the world, and you will get through it.
I know it might not seem like it during those few weeks, but it will all end eventually. These few tests and papers will not determine the rest of your life. If you feel yourself getting over-stressed, just take a step back, take a few deep breaths, get a snack, and then get back you work. You can do it!
Just think – in a few weeks, this will all be over and you’ll be able to enjoy summer break. So get to studying and finish out the semester on a high note. Good luck!
