Finals Survival Guide For Every Political Science Major
Start writing a post
Student Life

Finals Survival Guide For Every Political Science Major

Finals season is upon us -- here's how to make it through.

11
Finals Survival Guide For Every Political Science Major
Photo by Soundtrap on Unsplash

Thanksgiving break always seems to bring about this false sense of security. A week break, although a much-needed reprieve, makes the jump into finals that much harder as we try to adjust to the craziness that is sure to come. Political science students, in particular, are often faced with an overwhelming combination of assignments; anything from course papers to multiple-choice exams to group projects is fair game.

As a graduating senior, I am all too familiar with the panic that tends to arise at the prospect of such large assignments that could easily make or break your grade. What once seemed like far-away deadlines are suddenly only days away if you aren't careful, and with so many classes being online, losing track of those important due dates has become way too easy. Luckily, my four years of college have prepared me well and allowed me to nail down what I feel are the best finals survival tips that have yet to fail me.

1. Make a list of your due dates

Know what's due when. This may sound like a given, but you wouldn't believe how many deadlines I've almost missed by a day because I simply didn't check them beforehand. Double-check the most recent version of your course syllabi and make sure there isn't something you missed.

2. Designate what you’ll work on when

This is a relatively new practice of mine, but one that's really changed how I approach larger assignments. After figuring out what's due when I mark these dates on a calendar and space out which one's I'll work on each day. By breaking up large papers into smaller pieces, I've experienced far less stress and am able to keep my rather small attention span in check.

3. And on that note, don’t start that paper the night before it’s due

Don't. Just don't. I've been there, and trust me, you'll thank yourself for those extra workdays.

4. Use Quizlet

Luckily, none of my classes in recent semesters have had cumulative, multiple-choice exams, but back when I did, Quizlet was an absolute godsend. Double-check and see if there's already a set out there for your class, but if not, take the time to make one of your own. I promise it'll be worth it. Make flashcards, print out a study guide; whatever your learning style, there's sure to be a helpful option available for you.

5. Pull those all-nighters sparingly

I'm absolutely guilty of this too, but trust me, sleep is so very essential to producing the best work possible. Not to say that there won't be nights where staying up until the wee hours of the morning isn't a necessary evil. But choose those nights wisely and be sure to catch up on sleep in the days that follow. Repeated all-nighters never end well. I know this from experience. So, get some rest, and try not to overdo it too much.

6. Take care of yourself

Your mental health should never be put on hold. Make the time for some self-care. Go outside and take a walk, take a break, talk to family and friends, treat yourself to a holiday drink at Starbucks, watch an episode of your favorite series. Do something for yourself, even if just for an hour. Finals are stressful. Make sure they don't overwhelm you.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Featured

6 Things Owning A Cat Has Taught Me

This one's for you, Spock.

1953
6 Things Owning A Cat Has Taught Me
Liz Abere

Owning a pet can get difficult and expensive. Sometimes, their vet bills cost hundreds of dollars just for one visit. On top of that, pets also need food, a wee wee pad for a dog, a litter box with litter for a cat, toys, and treats. Besides having to spend hundreds of dollars on them, they provide a great companion and are almost always there when you need to talk to someone. For the past six years, I have been the proud owner of my purebred Bengal cat named Spock. Although he's only seven years and four months old, he's taught me so much. Here's a few of the things that he has taught me.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

Kinder Self - Eyes

You're Your Own Best Friend

3572
Kinder Self - Eyes
Pexels

It's fun to see all of the selfies on social media, they are everywhere. I see pictures with pouty lips, duck lips and pucker lips. I see smokey eyes, huge fake lashes and nicely done nose jobs, boob jobs and butt lifts. Women working out in spandex, tiny tops and flip flops. I see tight abs and firm butts, manicured nails and toes, up dos and flowing hair. "Wow", I think to myself," I could apply tons of make-up, spend an hour on my hair, pose all day and not look like that. Maybe I need a longer stick!"

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

Rap Songs With A Deeper Meaning

Rap is more than the F-bomb and a beat. Read what artists like Fetty, Schoolboy Q, Drake, and 2Pac can teach you.

23306
Rap artist delivers performance on stage
Photo by Chase Fade on Unsplash

On the surface, rap songs may carry a surface perception of negativity. However, exploring their lyrics reveals profound hidden depth.Despite occasional profanity, it's crucial to look beyond it. Rap transcends mere wordplay; these 25 song lyrics impart valuable life lessons, offering insights that extend beyond the conventional perception of rap music.

Keep Reading...Show less
Featured

21 Drinks For Your 21st Birthday

Maybe don't try them all in one day...

3255
21 Drinks For Your 21st Birthday

My 21st birthday is finally almost here. In honor of finally turning 21, I thought I'd share 21 fun drinks since it's finally legal for me to drink them.

Some of these drinks are basic, but some of them are a little more interesting. I thought they all looked pretty good and worth trying, so choose your favorites to enjoy at your big birthday bash!

Keep Reading...Show less
Politics

Ancient Roman Kings: 7 Leaders of Early Rome

The names and dates of the reigns of the first four kings, as well as the alternation of Sabin and Latin names, are more legendary than historical. The last three kings, of Etruscan origin, have an existence which seems less uncertain.

5452
inside ancient roman building
Photo by Chad Greiter on Unsplash

It is evident that all this is only a legend although archeology shows us little by little that these kings if they did not exist as the ancient history, describes them, have at least in the very Outlines were real as chief of a shepherd’s tribe. The period when kings ruled Rome could estimate at 245 years.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments