With the end of the semester approaching, classes are coming to an end, and you know what that means: finals. Instead of being excited for winter break, students are stressing about their upcoming exams. Finals week is the one week of the school year that every college student dreads the most. You basically have to re-teach yourself a semesters worth of work; and not to mention having about 5 exams or papers scheduled within the span of seven days. While it may feel like you’re drowning in textbooks and study guides; there actually are ways to relieve the stress. Before you decide to give up and drop out of college, take a deep breath. Here are some ways to relieve stress and prepare for finals without pulling your hair out.
1. Create a calendar: take time to write down all of your exams and papers when they are due. It’s easy to have everything written down so you know how much time you have between tests.
2. Actually read your textbook: Admit it, you have bought a textbook that has sat under your desk or in your closet and just collected dust. You haven’t cracked it open all semester because you thought you could get by with just the class notes. Reading the assigned chapters for your test will help you retain information easier and understand the information.
3. Work out: Going to the gym, going for run, or just stretching in your house will help you clear your mind. Whenever you feel like you want to poke your eyes out with your pen while writing your paper; stand up and stretch or go for a run. Getting oxygen will help clear your mind and relieve stress.
4. Stay organized: Keep all your notes and study materials in order. Don’t mix up class notes because you will just get more stressed out shuffling through papers when your things aren’t organized.
5. Take a study break: A good way to take study breaks is to assign yourself a certain amount of time for studying, then rewarding yourself when finishing the time. For example, tell yourself you’re going to study or read for 20 minutes. If you finish the full 20 minutes without checking your phone, then reward yourself with a 15 minute break.
6. Put your phone away: This cannot be stressed enough. Many students have a hard time studying because their cellphone is sitting next to them, and they’re tempted to check it every 2 minutes. Take a break from texting and Instagram for a few hours; this is the biggest distraction and it could be avoided when you keep it out of sight.
7. Study with friends: Sometimes studying with friends can be a distraction, but it’s also a great way to study. I know that when I study alone, I’m always wondering what my friends are doing; then think to myself how I’d rather be doing something fun with them than reading my notes. If you study with friends those thoughts can be avoided. Just make sure you’re with a group that will actually want to study and not make conversation the whole time.
8. Make a list: make a list of everything that needs to be done and assign it for each class. Having it written down is one less thing you need to remember. You will also feel relieved every time you check an item off the list once it’s finished.
9. Listen to music: listening to music not only can help you relieve stress, it can also put you in a better mood.
10. Find the right environment: One way to stay motivated to study is to choose your space wisely. The library is a quiet place without distractions; but it may not work for everyone. Some people like studying in the privacy of their home; but if you’re at the desk in your room you may be tempted to take a nap or turn on the TV. Find the right place that works for you- atmosphere means a lot when you’re trying to stay focused.
11. Get enough sleep: Finals week is famous for coffee-binging and going days without sleep. Think twice about cramming for your test and pulling an all-nighter. It will be difficult to retain any information if you don’t get any sleep.
12. Take advantage of what your campus has to offer: many colleges offer stress-relieving events for students during finals week. Universities know the pressure and anxiety of having so many exams; so they may offer free food and other ways to help students cope with the stress.
13. Don’t give up: I know the feeling of wanting to slam your lap-top closed and just tell yourself you’re going to “wing-it.” Whenever you get that feeling, take deep breaths, re-read this list; and tell yourself you’re going to be ok. Don’t drop out of college just yet; just think of how great you’ll feel after you ace all those finals.
