It is that time of year again; the dreaded finals week is around the corner. Whether this is your first round, or you are just looking for some tips and tricks, this is the article for you. Here are a few tips to keep in mind in order to keep your sanity during one of the most stressful weeks of the year.
1. Start studying now.
I know that the last thing you want to do while finishing up those last minute projects we all procrastinated with is think about studying, but take the time to do a little bit each night. Start on those flashcards, cheat sheets and study guides now rather than waiting until the last second to cram everything in.
2. Don't be afraid to get tutored.
Well, maybe you won't be this lucky to be tutored by your crush. However, if there is something you just don't understand and this is a resource at your disposal, use it. Especially if it comes down to getting or not getting the grades you want. Tutoring is not a bad thing.
3. Get your sleep.
Don't be like this cute little guy all week or even worse, during your final. Get your rest and know when enough is enough. If you've studied a ton but are exhausted, you aren't going to remember anything anyway. All nighters like the movies are extreme.
4. Eat well.
I know this seems pointless, but eat and eat well. Don't skip meals because you are cramming and stay away from high fat and sugar foods, even though that's what you tend to eat more of due to stress. The high fat and sugar will slow your brain down and leave you feeling even more sluggish and burnt out than you already do.
5. Make flash cards.
I thought flashcards were only for vocabulary and maybe math facts but I was wrong. Any subject can get easier if you make flashcards. I have learned that it helps to chunk information together to help my brain remember information when seen on the test.
6. Study in groups.
Studying with others helps so much. First, you can bounce ideas and thoughts off of one another. Someone may have a studying tip for the course that really helps you out. Second, helping someone else learn something indirectly helps you as well. If you can thoroughly explain it to someone else, you can do the same on a test. Third, you have a whole group to keep you on track and remember things maybe you don't.
7. Set a schedule.
Making and sticking to a schedule is huge, especially the week before and of finals. Decide what courses you will study for when, give every course enough time that it deserves, and do what you said you will when. This will guarantee proper study time.
8. Get to your final early.
Getting to your final early helps you get more comfortable and not as anxious. If you wait till the last minute and rush there, your pulse is going to be racing making you even more nervous than you already are. Plus, getting there early gives you extra time to study.
9. Chew mint gum.
Chewing gum, in general, tends to calm nerves because it is something familiar. However, choosing mint gum tends to spark memories allowing you to remember more things from your studying.
10. Relax.
Through everything, just take some deep breaths and relax. Put in some time to study things you may have forgotten, make some flashcards, and study with friends. You definitely got this.
