Finals week is dreaded by most college students, but it doesn't have to be. Whether you have been passing with flying colors or sticking to the "Cs get degrees" motto, Michelle Tanner has 11 tips on how to survive finals week.
1. All nighters are not worth it.
Just like New Year's Eve, staying up all night cramming for a test is not worth it. It is better to study for shorter increments of time during the days leading up to the test then all night before. Sleep is a very important part in the test taking process.
2. Being dramatic is a O.K.
While calling the police is not O.K., freaking out a little bit because you have an exam worth 20 percent of your grade over a subject you are only 20 percent confident in is O.K. However, you should pull yourself together after a couple minutes of the drama because too much drama won't help anyone.
3. Don't over commit yourself.
You know you will be busy studying, so don't commit to something you know you won't be able to keep. There is nothing worse than stressing yourself out because you planned to go to dinner with your best friends, promised someone you would go study with them, committed to a group project and have to study for your hardest final all in one night.
4. Don't procrastinate.
Waiting until the night before the test or the project is due to start will not help you. Start working weeks before so you can be best prepared.
5. Always keep your cool.
When the kid next to you says he's been studied for at least 12 hours straight with no breaks for food, bathroom or sleep, keep a level head and don't blow things out of proportion. Think of all the things you did as well. You probably studied, not for 12 hours, but for some period of time. You probably ate and you probably slept.
6. Being late is not an option.
Set your alarm early enough that you can snooze two or three times before you actually need to wake up. Most professors won't let you take the exam if you are late.
7. Take responsibility for your grades.
If you get a bad grade, don't blame the teacher or your friends for distracting you. If you get a good grade, congratulate yourself. You are in charge of how well you do on your tests.
8. Your appearance is important.
Look good. Feel good. Perform good. You will be more confident in your ability to ace your exam if you are confident in how you look. Weird correlation, I know, but it truly works.
9. Dessert must not be skipped.
You should reward yourself after a long day with some dessert. Michelle would recommend cookies or ice cream. Getting some dessert with friends is a great study break or celebration of finishing your exams.
10. Always try your best.
Do the best you can when studying and it will reflect on your grade. Don't give up on the test because you don't understand one word or phrase. If you try your best, then no one can get mad.
11. Be positive.
If you go into the exam with the mindset that you are going to fail, then you probably will. Instead, think of all the things you do know and tell yourself you are going to do great.
