Finals are almost upon us! Then, finally, winter break. It’s been a long semester, and the end is in sight, but it is important to keep going and give it your all until finals are over. Here are a few tips for studying and taking finals that might help get you through. :)
Studying
Everybody has their own “study style”. Whatever works for you, do it, as long as you are getting your information down and learning what you need to learn before your exam. However, some “study styles” can actually be harmful, and not actually prepare you as well as you think. For example, I have a horrible habit of trying to cram everything in the night before and trying to read and study everything we have learned all at once, which means I learn basically nothing and it is a waste of time. Obviously, the best way to avoid this would be to study in advance. Start now. Especially if the exam is for a really difficult class, or a class that is super important to your major, or whatever the case may be, the earlier you start learning and memorizing the material, the better. Trying to cram everything at the last minute will just result in a bad grade and a restless night.
This might seem obvious but utilize study tools like Quizlet. They can be very effective when you have to memorize vocabulary, years, etc. Oftentimes, you don’t even have to make it, because someone before you might have made a Quizlet for the exact test you are about to take. I cannot tell you how many times I have been studying for a test or exam, and I look something up, and an entire Quizlet with the entire study guide pops up and I am saved. Use your resources, but use them wisely and responsibly.
Another really useful tip for studying is to put yourself in an environment where you are set up for success. Listen to some music that will help you block out noise, but not interrupt your focus. Go somewhere, besides your bed, where you can focus on your work and not be bothered by your surroundings, such as the library. Going to the library can motivate you to work, especially if you go with a “study buddy”. Even if your buddy isn’t taking the same exam as you, being with someone can help you to stay motivated. Personally, when I study with someone, and I am not actually getting anything done, it makes me feel bad, so I am more motivated to get things done, mostly out of competition. As long as your buddy doesn’t distract you 24/7, it might benefit you both. Rent out a study room, grab a table on the third floor, and study quietly across from each other in the quiet zones, the possibilities are endless.
Taking the exam
Stay calm, you got this. Exams can be super stressful, but if you are well prepared, even if you aren’t, you will get through it, somehow. Take your time, check your answers, and do good work. If your exam is in person or proctored, be there on time, and be fully prepared. Make sure you have everything you might need because it can put even more stress if you are missing something like your calculator, your study sheet, or anything else. And make sure your computer is CHARGED. Online exams can become even more stressful if you are trying to beat the clock on your computer’s depleting battery.
For non-proctored online exams outside the classroom, especially if they are open-note, the world is your oyster. These are the best types of exams because you can consult your written notes, resources the professor has given you, the textbook, etc. It takes off so much of the stress of memorizing every single detail to perfection. However, many times, these exams are purposefully made to be short, to make it harder to reference your notes. This is because the professor still wants you to study, and not rely totally on in-the-moment fact-checking. This is why it is still important to study for these types of exams. While you may not need to memorize every detail and equation, definitely at least familiarize yourself with the order of your notes so you can find things promptly.
Finally
The most important thing is to study, and do it in a way where you will actually have time to learn everything. Other than that, you are going to crush your exams!! Good luck!