By: Katie Haley
Turns out there is a solution to surviving finals week that doesn’t involve an IV-drip of coffee and an all-nighter. In my three years of college I have found neither of those are likely to help you in the end. Finals week is overwhelming whether a freshman or a fifth year. The amount of information you need to cram in a week can be daunting. Here are a few ideas to study more efficiently.
Make a study schedule
Check your exam times. From there create a schedule of when you need to be prepared for each exam. This will help you prioritize what you should study first. With that being said, create a schedule of smaller study sessions. Don’t cram one class’s material into one day.
Study smarter, not harder
You might think the best way to study is rereading the textbook or rewatching a lecture. However, it usually doesn’t work. Try creating a Quizlet or flashcards with the material so you can test your knowledge. Also, studying many days in advance is more effective than one cram session before the exam.
Study Buddies
Getting a study group together is a great way to study efficiently — if you have the willpower to avoid distractions. You can quiz each other or divide and conquer on helping each other learn certain sections of material. If you often fall to distraction, find a friend to go to the library with that is going to hold you accountable and keep you focused.
Choose the right location
The environment that surrounds you while studying is important for the success of learning. Find a space where you feel motivated and focused. If you need silence, head to the library. If you need some background noise, try a local coffee shop.
Take a break
While it may seem like you need to study at every waking moment to learn all the material, it is only going to negatively impact you. Go for a walk, take a nap and do something for yourself.
Hopefully these tips can make your finals week a little less daunting. Take time for yourself to survive the marathon of finals week! Good luck, you got this!