As finals week approaches, it easy for students to become overwhelmed with the amount of studying crammed into one week.
However, there are ways to help control this stressful time. So, here are some tips on how I’ve been able to manage a hectic schedule.
Make sure to get enough sleep
Having a good night sleep before big exams or presentations is important because lack of sleep can cause brain fog. So, even though you might want to stay up all night to study, it might not be the best idea and can affect you the day of the exams.
Make a study schedule/to-do list and finish things in time blocks
Make a list of assignments or study guides you need to complete. Sometimes, it might be easier to get the smaller or easier assignments out of the way, or you might need to get the most difficult assignments done first for peace of mind. Either way, having a physical to do list can help organize your study schedule into time blocks. I like to place this list in front of my desk or on a sticky note on the side of my laptop so I know what to get done.
Also, don’t forget to give yourself breaks between completing things off your to-do list. This way you can avoid overwhelming yourself with the amount of assignments, exams, and presentations due.
Use an effective study method
Creating flashcards and going through them a few times is one way that can help you study. You can also highlight important keywords in your study guide; I find that this helps me remember important material a lot easier.
The main way I like to study is by using the platform Quizlet. There are different study modes to use and even a few game options to make studying a little more interesting.
Limit distractions
Make sure to put your phone away. It may be hard to not want to check your social media or new messages so frequently, but it can help you stay focused on studying. Also, let your family members know you are studying so they do not interrupt you or make any excessive noise.
Get up and get fresh air
There have been times where I’ve sat in front of my computer and not been able to concentrate. Instead of forcing the studying, I get up and go on short walks with my dog. Being outside and moving around helps me refresh my mind and get back into my studying element. Yoga, meditation, or jogging can also help get your brain in study mode again.
However you manage to study for finals week, just remember to keep your mental health in check and try not stress yourself out so much. You got this!
