There is no time during the year that is hated more than finals week. Especially fall semester finals. The holiday joy definitely does not cancel out the stress every college student feels when their professors throw out the work "final" for the first time. The possibility failing or not passing with the grade you are anticipating is the scariest reality a college student knows. Going through it more than once is an inevitable fear that becomes well known after a while. But what about for first year students? Well, if this is your first finals week in college, do not be too scared. It will not be your last, so might as well knock out your first as quickly and as easily as possible.
Here is your guide to surviving your first finals week:
1. Quizlet.
Physical flashcards are great but Quizlet flash cards could be more convenient. Besides the fact that the app sends its users notifications, users could use the app to take advantage of studying methods that could only be done with partners. Also, users could study off someone else's flash cards, not just their own.
2. Study Groups.
Sharing notes with other students in the same class could help you catch a topic or concept you might have missed. It's probably one of the easiest ways to somehow have a social life while studying for the worst exams of the semester.
3. Office Hours.
Even if it will be your first time attending office hours, it still will not hurt to go once. The professor might even offer you hints and tips that will help you on the upcoming final; help from the person who created the exam counts a lot more than help from anyone who has yet to even see the exam.
4. Repetition.
Retaining information is easier when you repeat concepts, key terms, definitions etc. and make studying into a habit.
5. Time Management.
Not cramming for finals is the easiest way to not fail finals. Study in blocks, with breaks in between. Starting early guarantees you less stress and more sleep. Lets be real, there is nothing us college students love more than sleeping in and staying up late. It is inevitable but it is not impossible.
6. Attend The Review Sessions.
Knowing the exam format and key concepts before beginning your actual study sessions could help you know where exactly you should be aiming your focus, stressing less on and expecting more of.
7. Rest.
You're going to perform better not only while taking the actual exam but while studying for it if you are caught up on your sleep. Take some time to relax.
8. Prioritize.
Pain is temporary, GPA is forever.
