I know you may be asking yourself, “Why is she writing yet ANOTHER article about preparing for finals?” Well, recently I’ve been the go-to for everything school related with all my friends. This inspired me to share with you my tips on how to perform your best during your hectic week of finals. Lets begin...
First, drink lots of coffee and get a lot of sleep. I don’t know about any of you out there but I can't live without coffee. It’s basically the greatest gift on this earth. However, for those of you who don’t drink it props to you. Coffee to me allows me to obviously stay awake but it also makes me focus when I’m studying especially when I’m tired. Oh and let’s not forget about sleep. You need your rest during this week so utilize your time wisely to avoid having to stay up late every night. Overall, don’t go overboard with coffee but drink it in moderation and SLEEP because that just allows you to function.
Second, make sure you ask your professors questions prior to your exams. If you are confused about ANYTHING prior to you exams (not two or three days before it) ask your professors questions during their office hours or if you can't make their office hours ask your questions via email! Not only will they appreciate your effort but it will also clarify things for you compared to using Google.
Third, make flashcards. I flashcard everything. This is an essential visual aide to studying especially for terms. Not only does this studying method force you to repeatedly re-write some of your notes, it also allows you to study in another way. I recommend using Quizlet if you are against writing flashcards out the old fashioned way.
Fourth, do not PROCRASTINATE. Unless you thoroughly enjoy stressing yourself out then I highly recommend cutting out any distractions that could tempt you from not doing any of your studying or other work such as the TV, cell phone, laptop, and of course music.
Fifth, Keep your study area organized. Nothing bothers me more than having my study area look like a hurricane hit it. Also, it is significantly harder to focus and get all of your tasks done when your space is messy. Therefore, before you begin your studying, clean up your study area!
Sixth, if you are studying in a group, study SOLO prior to your meeting. I personally don’t like studying in groups because I get distracted a lot. However, this method may work for you so, if you are going to study in a group study on your own first. This allows you to understand the material beforehand and then during your group study sessions you can quiz and help each other out.
Last but not least, take adequate study breaks. Studying for long extended periods of time is not effective UNLESS you break up your studying over allotted periods of time. This also allows you to mentally decompress for a little bit in order for your brain to fully absorb the materials you wish to remember.
I hope these seven tips helped you all. Happy Studying!
