With finals week just around the corner, it is easy to begin to feel completely overwhelmed and stressed out about upcoming tests. Staying up until the late hours of the night, drinking tons of caffeine to stay awake, and studying endlessly while somehow trying to stay sane is all part of the dreaded finals week. However, do not worry! Here are some tips and tricks to stay calm, cool and collected during finals week.

1. Prepare

I can't stress this enough: don't procrastinate. If you wait until the last minute to study, you most likely will not retain the information and you will begin to feel extremely overwhelmed. Begin reviewing early by setting aside a few minutes or hours a day to study. This is a great way to help you walk into the exam room feeling completely prepared.

2. Engage

When you go to class, try to actively get involved with what is being discussed or taught. If you actively participate, odds are you will remember the information. A great way to learn and retain material is by attending review sessions and meeting regularly with your professor.

3. Find a group

Reviewing in a group allows you to ask questions and get answers from people who are learning the same material as you. When you study with others, you not only have the opportunity to ask questions but answer them too. By teaching the information to others, you remember it better. This is also a great way to change up your studying environment.

4. Take a break

This is essential during finals week. When you are cramming and trying to memorize information, your brain needs a break. So, kick back and relax for a little while by watching an episode of your favorite show or by taking a quick walk around campus.

5. Confidence is key

You've got this! Go into your finals week with confidence. It is so easy to feel deflated after staying up late and cramming, but if you have a positive mindset, you will do better on the exam.

6. Set goals and achieve them

Each night, set aside time to write out a list of things you want to accomplish that week. This will allow you to stay on track, stay organized and manage your time wisely. When you reach the goals you've set, make sure you reward yourself for all your hard work.

7. Don't forget the basics

You know, like eating and breathing? Make sure you are staying healthy by staying hydrated and eating well during this week. Believe me when I say that there is nothing more distracting than hearing your stomach constantly growl while trying to focus on a test.

8. Treat yourself

Yes, you're going to be studying hard and preparing, but do not forget to set aside time for yourself. It is okay to reward yourself after reviewing for hours on end. After all, going out for ice cream or taking a quick nap never hurt anyone.

Following these few, simple tips and tricks will help you to remain calm and succeed during finals week. So, good luck on those exams. You've got this!