I promise final exams won’t be as scary as it sounds (hopefully).
1. Make a color coded schedule
If you don’t already color code your planner or calendar, this is my number one tip for organization (and there’s no better time to start than right in time for finals). I don’t know if this is just me, but I usually associate different classes or activities I’m involved in with different colors.
In addition to color coding per every class, I also find it helpful to color code by unit or topic for each class. This helps me remember relevant information through association with the given color and other important key parts of that topic. When it comes to test taking, my brain associates the topics of the questions with whatever color I know that topic comes from, and I have an easier time recalling the information that follows.
2. Make sure you know what to expect
Check the syllabus for your course to see what information it gives on the final. Is it cumulative? Does it focus around a certain topic? What is the test format? If no information is specifically outlined about the final, learning objectives or outcomes are definitely a good place to start while figuring out what topics to study for the final.
Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask the professor their expectations for the final exam, and if they could provide study materials or some sort of practice or past exam.
3. Plan out plenty of time to study each topic
Once you have your finalized finals schedule, grab a calendar, and start planning backwards from the date of your final. Give yourself a day or two to review each unit or topics from each past exam you’ve had in the course. Bottom line: absolutely do not wait until the day of to start studying for your finals. Yes, you are probably more prepared than you think, but having a game plan and information fresh in your mind will lead to the highest success.
4. Study in groups!
I think that group studying is one of the most effective ways to study for a test and solidify your understanding of a topic. Not only will you be able to keep each other accountable for studying, but you will also become more confident in your own skills by helping others grow theirs. When it comes down to it, we are all here to work hard, and by collaborating with others, we strengthen everyone’s academic confidence.
5. Eat healthy! (and stay hydrated)
A healthy diet = a healthy mind. Make sure to fuel your body with healthy options (I know I am very guilty of not eating enough vegetables, but they really do help your brain function to the best of its ability). Balanced meals will also enhance cognitive function, so make sure you are definitely getting enough protein at every meal. Focus on eating three meals a day, especially at a time when you want your brain to be at its top performance level.
Most importantly, no matter what time your final is at, eat breakfast! Starting off your day with a nutritious meal will ensure you will be well prepared to put forth your best ability on your final.
6. Get those zzz’s
Just as important as eating healthy is making sure you get an ample amount of sleep. Allowing your brain to rest before working it super hard during a final is super important. Try your best to not stay up late the night before studying for your final. Instead, be confident in your preparations and get that extra hour or two of sleep.
7. Remember to breathe
You’ve made it through your first semester of in-person schooling in a while, take a moment to be extremely proud of yourself for that. No matter what you’re up against when you sit down to take your final, take a deep breath to clear your mind, and you will succeed!
Lifestyle HACKs is an Opinion column written and created by Zoe Hack ‘24 to discuss studying guides and techniques, healthy cooking and eating, and other lifestyle tips during college life.
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