Finals are approaching and everyone is starting to tremble with fear. How am I ever going to pass these classes? Where do I even start studying? Am I having a heart attack? Well, just take a minute to stop sending “SOS” in Morse code because I think I can help. Just follow these 5 ways to prep for finals and I promise you will make it to the light at the end of the tunnel.
Inside Scoop
If your professor has not posted a study guide, go in and talk with them. The best way to narrow down your study material is to go in and get the inside scoop from your professor. Another resource to use is your fellow classmates. Determine what they are studying, compare notes, and make sure that the information you obtained during the trimester matches theirs.
Plan of Attack
When it comes to finals or any tests in general, your time management skills can be your best asset. Look up your finals schedule and write out the dates on your calendar. Once you have done this, you can better allocate the right amount of time for each test. This allows you to use your time wisely, rather than wasting time on debating which final deserves the most attention.
Food Prep
One of the biggest things I do during finals week, is food prep. All of my time is set aside for studying and the more time I can spend with my head in the books and not wasted in the kitchen, is crucial. On a side note, stock up on coffee. I usually have enough coffee in my house that guests may mistake my house for a Folgers warehouse.
Find a Quiet Retreat
Something that can make or break finals week is your place of study. If you are studying in a sports bar with a ton of T.V.s and distractions, chances are your grades are going to suffer. Find a place that is limited on distractions but is still comfortable enough that you can stay there for long periods of time. In my house, I have an office with nothing but a desk and once I close the door, game on!
Stress Relief
Let’s be real, finals are stressful no matter what you do. Find an outlet or something to do that allows you to give your mind a rest. My outlet is usually playing basketball or just taking 30 minutes to look at something other than a textbook. This allows you to recharge, keep a level head, and really concentrate on hitting the books.
At the end of the day, finals are just another test. Throughout your collegiate career, you will take hundreds, maybe even thousands of tests, so just relax. The day will still go on and everything will be alright. Good luck to everyone on their finals and keep an eye out for the next blog!
