How to Effectively Prepare For Final Exams as a Stressed College Student
College finals are an extremely stressful period of time. Final exams can be daunting, given the culmination of a semester’s worth of information. Multiple exams can add to the stress of finishing a semester. How you prepare for finals can have an impact on how you make it through them. Having a game plan and strategy for your finals can make a difference in how they go. If you are looking for some guidance to approach your finals exams, then keep reading!
Start by creating a plan for yourself
Take the time to sit down and look at when all your finals are. Try to make yourself a schedule specifically for finals. In this schedule, you’ll want to include when the exams are and when you plan to study which materials. Knowing that you have a plan and control over how to get to the finish line can have a big impact on reducing feelings of overwhelm. If you are using an electronic device for scheduling, have it give you reminders for when to study and the subject you are studying.
Start sooner rather than later
Don’t procrastinate. Get the ball rolling. The sooner you start, the more time you have to prepare. By starting sooner, you’ll give yourself more time to prioritize harder subjects while still covering all the material you feel you have to cover. Time management for finals is crucial, and it can be a large component in your success. Time management will make or break your finals, so prioritize your success. Creating a good schedule and plan can help with time management.
Make sure you are studying in a good location
The location you choose to study in can have an impact on the quality of your time. Some people prefer to study in the same spot and some people prefer to change their location up. Notice whichever works for you and make sure to implement that. Be in a location that is not distracting. Limiting distractions will help with your ability to maintain focus and feel productive. Notice if your devices are distracting for you, and if so, try to silence them. Put your devices away, and focus. Twitter, Instagram, Tiktok, and Facebook will still be there when you are done studying.
Continue to prioritize self care
Having good rest and energy throughout finals is extremely important. Make sure that you continue to do things that are good for you during your finals. Having a good schedule and plan can allow you to implement things that are good for you during this period. For example, if exercising is something that relieves stress for you, then make sure to still schedule that into your plan. Allow yourself time to do these activities because breaks from studying are also helpful. Make sure you are getting enough sleep. While all nighters seem popular during finals, lacking sleep can have an impact on how you show up to your finals. Energy can be key in crushing your tests!
Finals are a time of stress and anxiety for many college students. However, there are things that you can implement to try and help reduce some of that stress. Having a good plan, good sleep, good time management, and good study habits can help with how impactful your finals are. Implementing good skills can help you feel like you have more control over your finals and this can help to improve your confidence with them. If you are feeling the stress and worry of your finals looming over you try implementing some of the skills above and see if they help!
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Written by: Lindsay Fortier, LGPC
