Everybody knows that finals week can get very stressful, and on top of that, the library and the C-Lab get packed and you can’t find that spot you need to have a quiet study time. You want coffee but the line in Starbucks is ridiculously long. You’re trying to study but the only thing you can think of is white glove checks and packing.
But despite the stress and the uncertainty of final exams, it is a unique time that you’re going to remember as either a bad time or a good time. Following are some tips that are going to help you have a less stressful finals week:
1. Priorities First.
When I feel overwhelmed by homework, projects, meetings, and exams, I make a list. I make sure to put the thing that I think I should dedicate more time to as my #1 priority, so that I can start working ahead on that. The other things that don’t need so much time go towards the end of the list. I greatly suggest a list like this because it puts your workload into perspective and you’ll feel more organized after that!
2. Minimize Distractions.
Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and music can get in our way of getting things done. If you know it’s hard for you to not look at the notifications screen when it vibrates, then put your phone away and try to listen to instrumental music. You can reward yourself with some Netflix later!
3. Avoid The All-Nighter.
According to Dan Taylor, director of the Sleep and Health Research Lab at the University of North Texas, this will interfere with rapid-eye movement (REM), which aids memory. So, get a good night’s sleep and expect to perform better on tests. (Quick tip: Review the toughest material right before going to bed the night before the test. It makes it easier to recall the material later, according Taylor!) And don’t forget to set up an alarm. You don’t want to be late4. Alternate Study Spots.
According to the New York Times, simply alternating the room where a person studies improves retention. Try alternating your study spots between the library, a study room, and a quiet coffee house.
5. Do Some Exercise.
Sports are a great way to release the pressure after a hard day of work. You will probably be spending a lot of time in your room studying. Going outside and doing physical activities will relax your muscles and occupy your mind with something fun. Sports are great, but make sure to avoid dangerous games - you don’t want to break your leg the day before your final exams!
6. Take Breaks And Have Fun.
Liberty offers a lot of activities that make your finals week so much better. Take advantage of them and take a break from your studies.! Go and play with the puppies or do some crafting at the library. If you need a longer break, you can call your friends and go to downtown, do some hiking, or just go to some restaurant and have a good time. And if you feel like not going out of your room, you can just watch Netflix. Just tell your roommate to not allow you to watch the whole season of Friends or whatever you’re watching right now, and don't forget to return to studying!
7. Pray.
Don’t forget that you are important to God, and He wants you to succeed in everything you do. Pray before each test and trust in Him! But remember - He will only help you remember the stuff you actually studied! Otherwise, pray you’ll guess well!
Good luck!
