By: Salma Mardi
As the semester hurtles toward its conclusion, the impending finals week can feel like a whirlwind of stress and anticipation. But fear not! With a strategic approach, you can tackle your finals with confidence and set yourself up for success. Here’s your ultimate guide to prepare for the upcoming finals:
- Organize Your Materials:
Start by gathering all your notes, textbooks, and class materials. Create a comprehensive list of topics that will be covered in each exam. Organizing your study material will help you identify the areas that need more attention.
- Create a Realistic Schedule:
Time management is key. Break down your study sessions into manageable chunks, and allocate specific time slots for each subject. Be realistic about your capabilities and factor in breaks to avoid burnout.
- Prioritize Your Subjects:
Identify the subjects that require more focus and prioritize them. Allocate more study time to challenging subjects while maintaining a balance with those you find easier. This ensures a thorough review of all materials.
- Utilize Active Learning Techniques:
Instead of passively reviewing notes, engage in active learning. Quiz yourself, create flashcards, teach the material to someone else, or participate in study groups. These techniques enhance understanding and retention.
- Seek Clarification:
If there’s any concept or topic you find confusing, don’t hesitate to seek clarification. Reach out to your professors, classmates, or utilize online resources. Understanding the material thoroughly is crucial for exam success.
- Practice with Past Papers:
Many professors provide past exam papers. Use them as practice tests to familiarize yourself with the exam format and types of questions. This not only helps with content review but also boosts your confidence.
- Take Care of Yourself:
Maintain a healthy lifestyle during finals. Ensure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and incorporating short breaks for physical activity. A healthy mind and body contribute to better concentration and retention.
- Utilize Campus Resources:
Take advantage of resources offered at RU, such as tutoring services, writing centers, or study workshops. Roosevelt’s Learning Commons is your go-to resource. The Learning Commons offers specialized tutoring services that cater to the demands of your coursework. Take advantage of this invaluable resource to ensure you’re honing your skills to the highest level. The Honors office also offers study rooms you can check out during office hours (9-4 Monday through Thursday)!
- Digital Detox:
Minimize distractions by taking periodic digital detox breaks. Turn off social media notifications and find a quiet, focused environment for your study sessions. This helps in maintaining concentration and productivity.
- Plan for Exam Day:
In the days leading up to the exams, plan for the actual exam day. Know the exam location, gather necessary materials, and ensure you get a good night’s sleep before the big day.
Remember, finals week is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself, stay focused, and celebrate small victories along the way. You’ve got this! Good luck!
Other lists:
https://www.princetonreview.com/college-advice/how-to-study-for-finals
https://shorelight.com/student-stories/21-best-study-tips-for-final-exams/
https://blogs.tntech.edu/graduate/2022/04/27/how-to-prepare-for-final-exams-14-top-and-easy-tips/