How to survive exam week
10 December 2021
Sinterklaas has passed, which means it’s time to concentrate and finish the semester strong. This time of the year may be hectic and stressful with final projects, papers, and examinations, especially as the holiday season approaches. It seems like you have a paper due every five minutes, and somehow, you also have to find time to begin studying for a few make-it-or-break-it exams. It can be hard finding motivation during finals week, when all you want to do is curl up, drink hot chocolate and listen to Christmas songs, but don’t give up just yet! Here are some suggestions for staying motivated and surviving finals week.
- Make a study plan. Make a list of everything you need to get done from now until the time you’re heading home for Christmas Break. Every exam, paper, assignment, and meeting should be included. Find the gaps in your schedule and arrange study time in doable amounts. Keeping your next week’s plan as organized and consistent as possible can help you feel less disorganized and stressed.
- Switch up your study space. Depending on your study style, you may find yourself procrastinating if you’re not in the right study environment. To minimize distraction and procrastination, it would probably be best to go to a campus building or a library, since many people are more productive when they are in a more formal study setting. Don’t be scared to expand out and study at a different location. A change of location can often help you refocus.
- Find study buddies. Revising can be a lonely time, and you’ll often see students sitting alone in the library with their heads buried in a book. It is discovered that working with others can actually really boost your studying. Listening to how other students study might help you broaden your revision and topic understanding. Testing and studying together will provide you with a clear picture of how much you already know and what you need to improve on.
- Think about what you’re eating. When it comes to food, our brains don’t function well when we’re hungry or consuming foods that aren’t typical of us, so make sure you’re well-fed with meals and snacks. We’ve all heard that eating a decent meal before an exam is important, and it is true; your stomach, brain, and grades will thank you. Drink lots of water throughout the day to keep your energy levels up.
- Don’t be too hard on yourself. Of course, studying is crucial and necessary for every test you take, but that doesn’t imply you should study at all times of the day. Make sure you take time for yourself to keep yourself energetic, focused, and sane. Grabbing a bite and going for a short stroll will recharge your batteries for another hour or two. This way you’ll be more energised and ready to squeeze in a few more hours of studying before going to bed. Cramming and studying for eight hours straight will just add to your stress.
You’ve got this! Just keep in mind that it will all be over soon. You’ll be fine if you work hard, take a deep breath, and take care of yourself. And don’t forget to celebrate afterwards!