Study tips to get through finals week

This archived article was written by: Brooke Van Wagoner

Finals week is upon us, it is the time to learn the material we have put off learning the entire semester. Here are some tips to get you through the long hours of studying and plentiful essays.
Put your phone away
Turn it off and leave it in the next room or locked away in a safe if you have to. Electronics are a large part of today’s society and can be very useful, but can hinder our study time. If possible, refrain from bringing your laptop to study. Print out the study material and that way you can stay off the social media or games that are addicting.
Go to the library
Escape the hustle and bustle of your dorm room or apartment, especially if you have a roommate. The library is a great place to go and focus. It is quiet and there are fewer distractions. This would be a good time to distance you from electronics. Try leaving the phone at home.
Make flash cards
Flash cards are a great way to study. Not only can you study them at home but you can take them anywhere. You can pull them out while waiting for class to start or during some downtime at work.
Take breaks
Cramming doesn’t work. Our brains get fried and we learn less effectively. This is why we need to take routine breaks while studying. Doing this will help us feel refreshed and actually cover more material, more efficiently.
Study in groups
Get together with some of your classmates. You can gain new perspective and learn more material you may have missed during lecture. It is a fun environment and can help you remember the things you study better.
Pick the time of day that works best for you.
Everyone is different. You may be a night owl or an early bird. But whatever works for you, be consistent. This routine will make it easier for studying to become a habit and cuts down on procrastination.
Get enough sleep and eat well
All-nighters may be necessary sometimes but they are not healthy and your brain will not be as alert the next day. Only a full 8 hours of sleep and good nutrition will help your mind function at its highest potential. So eat your fruits and veggies and get plenty of sleep the night before your big final.
Hopefully these tips will better prepare you to hit the books and get through finals week.