The dreaded finals season is upon us. As much as college students might not want to admit it, that usually means last-minute assignments, cramming, late nights and overwhelming levels of stress.
Online guides for getting through finals will give you rigorous lifestyle swaps that students don’t have the time, money or motivation to apply. Here are a few ways to keep yourself on track, keep stress low and prepare yourself for test scores you’re happy with.
Making a schedule
One of the most difficult parts of studying and taking finals is managing your time. Create a schedule with an outline of when you plan to do your homework and study. Do this on a sticky note, online document or whatever method works best for you. Be sure to treat your schedule like a guideline and don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t stick to it fully.
Additionally, it helps to set a goal for when you plan to go to bed. Adequate sleep greatly improves focus, memory retention, the immune system and helps combat some of that test-taking anxiety. College students should get between seven and nine hours of sleep every night.
Falling asleep when you’re overwhelmed can be difficult. Try drinking a warm, un-caffeinated beverage before bed and avoid doomscrolling. If you “doomscroll,” at least set your phone to warm mode to reduce blue light eye strain. Cognitive shuffling, the process of imagining unrelated images and words, can also be effective at helping you fall asleep.
Taking breaks
When studying for an exam, it can feel counterproductive to take a break. However, breaks are clinically proven to improve your memory and prevent burnout. During hours of rigorous studying, do some stretching, grab something to eat, take a power nap or even scream it out into a pillow if that helps you.
This is especially helpful if you’re cramming the night before an exam. A five-minute break won’t mean you fail the exam; it’ll just mean you had time to fuel your body, ground yourself and take a breather.
Outside of studying, it can be very helpful to remind yourself that a bad grade isn’t the end of the world. Watch a movie, do some retail therapy, hit the gym, eat a comfort meal, talk to a friend or perform some other activity that helps keep you sane.
A healthy diet
Let’s face it — college students notoriously have questionable diets. Whether you’re eating instant noodles, scavenging at the dining hall or skipping a meal altogether, it can be difficult to get your nutrients. Staying hydrated and incorporating a few healthier options are some of the most practical ways to maximize your potential during finals week.
Complex carbohydrates are slow-releasing forms of energy, which means they sustain you for longer periods of time. Try eating foods like oats, pasta, beans, potatoes, carrots, apples and bananas during this time. The dining hall usually offers at least a few of these options. If they’re all out, try Clyde’s Cupboard.
It can be tempting to reach for a sweet treat out of convenience. Avoiding processed sugars is challenging as a college student, so instead just try to avoid them right before an exam. This will prevent you from experiencing a blood sugar crash, which can cause jitteriness, sluggishness, anxiety and an inability to focus.
Mindful practices
The emotional turmoil brought about during finals week can feel as draining as the exams themselves. While practices like yoga and meditation are great for mindfulness, these activities can take years to get the hang of. Here are some simple things you might actually have the energy to do.
If you’re physically able, take the stairs instead of the elevator to reward your brain with a dopamine boost. Put your phone face down to discourage procrastination. Clean up your desk — or wherever you plan to study — so you’re more comfortable. Put on your favorite cozy outfit to get comfortable.
Ask for help if you’re struggling mentally or academically. Take advantage of the three free psychotherapy sessions through the Wellness Center, make an appointment with the Excel Multiliteracy Center or ask your roommate to help you rehearse flashcards.
It might also help to call a friend and rant about how busy you feel. Sometimes articulating your stress helps you identify your next steps. Complaining can be productive after all!
Whether you’re eating a snack, meal or taking a sip of a drink, try to slow down and be present. Grab your cup with both hands. Pay attention to the food you’re eating. Finals week means constant rushing, so slowing down even for one meal can help remind you to take a breath.
A positive attitude
The best way to face finals week is by maintaining a positive attitude. Find something to look forward to, whether it’s sleeping in, visiting family, embracing holiday traditions or not seeing that one professor you can’t stand. Remind yourself that it’s just a few more days and soon you’ll be done.
Good luck!
Photo from Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash.