Six Tips To Rock Finals

Photo by: Ashley Alonzo

1. Check the finals schedule

You know what would be super sad? If you study your brain off for a test and show up at the wrong time in the wrong room. You need to check the finals schedule as soon as it comes out. It will be on an email from Dr. Kelley, and the only thing you have to do is figure out what time will your class take the final test. Keep in mind that your test might be on a different time than the one your class meets. Because your class is M-W-F at 11 a.m., it does not mean your final will be at any of those times, so be careful!

2. Make your study schedule

You know what would be even sadder? If you studied for the wrong test. The only way to focus on the present and avoid anxiety is to write everything down and make your own study schedule. Grab a calendar and write what day will be dedicated to which test and make sure to write the time and date of the final exam next to it. If you don’t own a calendar and find yourself struggling to be organized, you can download a template from Word or PowerPoint and it will work wonderfully.  

3. Sleep

Even if you are not majoring in biology, you know that the brain and body need rest in order to function properly. Although some students might think that “cramming it up” the night before is a good strategy, your brain will be exhausted by the time the test comes. All of that hard work will be worth zero As when you can’t think due to exhaustion. Lesson of the day: Sleep accordingly.

4. Eat ‘brain foods’

If you are not a fan of coffee and are into natural vibes, here are three tips to make the perfect combo for your brain and body to be extra-ready for the exam: tea, fruit and nuts. Nutritionist-dietician Cecilia Castro (that’s my sister) assures that it is much better for your system if you drink some kind of tea, which gives you caffeine without the damaging effects of coffee, accompanied by a fruit. Lastly, nuts, like almonds and walnuts, give your brain some healthy fats that will get it working right away to crush that test. 

5. Don’t procrastinate

Taking a break does not mean throwing the study schedule out the window and telling your friends, “Let’s get Chipotle in Lawrence!” It means taking a 30-min nap, having a snack, breathing some fresh air. We all know that Netflix is a great distraction from our problems, like studying for finals, but looking at a screen will keep exhausting your eyesight and your mind. Both of which you will probably need to keep studying.

6. Do take a break

Studying too much is an actual thing. When you are sure you know the material, stop and take a break. You might start second-guessing yourself because of how long you might study the same subject. Make sure to include a break in your study schedule so your mind stays fresh and active.  When taking a break, think of the acronym FRESH: Fast, Refreshing, Essential, Soothing and Humorous. If your break will be quick, is necessary, will calm your stress and make you laugh, then you have chosen the right break!

Good luck with finals. May the grades be ever in your favor!