Finals week is the one that gets ya. You're already exhausted from a stressful semester, and now all of you last exams are compiled into one, extremely, long week. You're ready for a break, you're ready to have some freedom beyond school work, and to well, let loose. All of that may be true...but you kind of have to pass your exams. So, here I have gathered five tips to help you not only get through the week but ace your exams.
1. Prepare. Set a deadline, and schedule out time to study.
About a week before finals, go ahead and make a game plan for the week. The most important advice that I have learned, was to allow time to study. I typically have a busy week as it is, but studying for my exams is at the top of my list. I write everything that is on my calendar during finals week and make reminders to study during free time.
2. Eat nutritious food.
Don't go out and get a burger or some french fries, eat on the better side. More healthy. Grab an apple or two, make a sandwich, maybe even drink a smoothie. Fruit and berries have so many antioxidants and nutrients that in some cases, people think it helps you with memory (aka remembering stuff for your exam). Soda will make you "crash" after you are all sugared up, I mean of course indulge in whatever your heart desires, but if it were me, I would take 1 week out of my "maybe not so great diet" so eat better to help with exam preparation.
3. Get a good night's rest.
Seriously, I have done the whole cramming the night before an exam. Never works so well for me. Instead, allow yourself a good 8-9 hour sleep. There is nothing worse than being exhausted when you wake up the next morning to head straight to an exam.
4. Take a break from time to time.
For me personally, I refuse to sit and study for hours and hours at a time. I absolutely have to take a break otherwise, I just can't focus. A break for me, is rewarding myself with an episode of Suits on Netflix or going out to lunch, take a quick cat nap (my favorite). There is a thing about "overstudying" ya know.
5. Study old exams, do some practice quizzes, make flashcards, whatever.
Everyone has different study habits. I like to redo some old exams or quizzes. I also write all the topics down on a blank piece of paper and highlight key points. I'm typically not the person to make flashcards or read through the book, I actually despise doing that, but whatever works for you, go for it.
Just think. You're about to have a break. Plus when this article gets published, it is still summer no matter how long and exhausting it may have been for you taking classes, go live it up. You got this.
