Whether we like it or not, finals are afoot! Whether these are exams or papers, or a combination of the two, there is still a lot of work to be done (but we will be finished soon enough!). Campus libraries are bound to be teeming with students trying to tie up these loose ends. Many will be there just to commiserate with friends and will pull all-nighters. Don’t fall into either of these traps! While there is certainly plenty of work to be done, you should absolutely not be spending 24 hours straight in the library. No paper or exam is worth that kind of stress!

Here are seven reasons why you should not be cramming in the library 24/7 during finals period:

1. Libraries will be crowded. Get creative.

First off, many students will come out of the woodwork and suddenly express interest in going to the library, most likely to give the illusion (to friends, parents, and themselves) that they are actually focusing. Consequently, campus libraries will be PACKED. Finding a seat will be extremely difficult, even if you arrive in the early morning – people have probably been there since the previous night!

With that in mind, consider studying in other campus spaces, which may in fact be less crowded and distracting. Some options to consider on Brown’s campus: an empty classroom, the Nelson lobby, your room (if this works for you), a coffee shop, or the upper floors of Faunce.

2. Chunk out your studying/writing and start early.

To avoid cramming, be sure to establish a study schedule as early as possible. By methodically chunking out your responsibilities, you can set smaller and more attainable goals. You can also avoid hours of suffering in the library. If you are going to go, do so in short bursts.

3. Remember to allocate “you time.”

It is easy to get swept up in all of these final assignments. Remember that you are a person before you are a student. Carve out a few minutes each day to do something you enjoy doing. It is important to distance yourself from your work every now and then. Doing so will reduce your stress, clear your mind, and even give you new ideas on how to improve your strategy.

4. You need to eat!

For some reason, people seem to forget this simple fact around finals time. Your body needs fuel to keep pushing through these long hours. Please remember to take a break from the library to eat! Or at least pack snacks!

5. You need to SLEEP!

Another simple fact. There is NO alternative for a good night’s sleep. Leave the library at a reasonable time. Your mind will be much clearer and efficient when it is well-rested.

6. See the forest for the trees.

Remember that you will be done with this ~suffering~ within a couple of weeks. Also keep in mind that these finals represent just one grade in one class in one of eight semesters. It is not the end of the world.

7. Trust in yourself and what you’ve learned.

You are more than capable of doing this. As long as you have been “present” all semester, you will do amazing things on these final exams. There is no need to spend hours in the library if you don’t have to. Focus on your weaknesses as you gear up for test or submission day.

Please make healthy and smart choices during this period of final exams – this may be the biggest test of all!