As finals week approaches, students are feeling the pressure to perform their best. While cramming the night before might sound tempting, experts and seasoned students agree that planning and effective study techniques are key to acing those exams. Here’s a rundown of the best methods to help you conquer finals without burning yourself out.
1. Start Early and Plan Ahead
Procrastination is a student’s worst enemy. Start reviewing material at least two weeks before finals begin. Create a study schedule, breaking down subjects into manageable chunks. Prioritize topics you find most challenging and allocate more time to those.
2. Find Your Perfect Study Spot
Not all environments are created equal when it comes to productivity. Many students swear by studying at the library because it’s quiet so you can focus better. Others prefer coffee shops, their bedrooms, or even outdoors. Experiment to find what works best for you—just make sure it’s calm with no distractions.
3. Use Active Learning Techniques
Passively reading your notes isn’t enough to succeed. Engage with the material by summarizing key points, creating flashcards, or teaching the concepts to someone else. Studies show that active learning boosts retention. Making flashcards and quizzing yourself tends to help more than just reading.
4. Take Breaks and Stay Active
The brain needs rest to function at its best. Follow the 25-5 rule: set a timer and study for 25 minutes, then set another time and take a 5-minute break. Use the time to stretch, grab a snack, or take a short walk to keep your brain active. Steer clear of your phone and all social media to avoid a distraction that interrupts the learning process.
