It’s officially that time of the year again: finals are coming, and chances are, you’re dreading them just like everybody else! Before you can return home for the summer or soak up the sun on vacation, you have to first endure a week (or two, depending on your college or university) of testing. Finals week isn’t pleasant for anyone, but if you follow these study tips, it might go a little smoother for you.
1. Don’t wait until the last minute to make your review guides.
It might seem like a pain to have to make your review guides before the fact, but trust me, come finals week, the last thing you’re going to want to do is head to the library to print a 35 page study guide that you just spent an eternity creating. Get it over with before you head into the week; that way you already have all your materials and can begin studying right off the bat.
2. Study in a group for that one class you struggle with.
If there’s one specific test that you think you’re going to have difficulty with, try to get a study group together with several members of your class. That way, if you’re having a rough time when trying to prepare for the exam/presentation/essay, you have people to bounce ideas off of.
3. That being said...study the way that you know works for you.
Finals week is NOT the time to be testing out a new method of studying. Know what is effective for you, and do that. If cramming always lands you an ‘A,’ do it! If preparing for weeks ahead of time gets you the grade you want, then do that. It’s all about what works for you.
4. Make use of the resources your college/university has available for you.
Chances are your college has a “math lab” that you can ask to help you with your practice exam or a “proofreading service” you can drop by to get your essay checked by another set of eyes before you turn it in. They are typically either covered by your tuition or available at little cost. Use these resources!
5. Go to office hours.
If your professors see that you are making a dedicated effort to end the semester on a high note by dropping by their office hours to get help on tricky assignments, they’re more likely to recognize your efforts when they’re grading your final and give you a better grade. Your professors are there to help you learn, after all.
6. Make a study playlist.
Personally, I cannot study without music. Make a studying-for-finals playlist a week or so ahead so you have something to jam out to while preparing for your tests. It’ll boost your mood the moment you put your earbuds in, I promise.
We’re in the homestretch…you can do it! Good luck on finals!
