While we’re all spending an absurd amount of time in the library preparing ourselves for finals week, we have to remember that pulling all-nighters is, in fact, a terrible idea. Finals week calls for doing nothing but studying for hours, but it’s better to take a few breaks here and there. Here are a few things to do when you’re in the midst of finals week to keep yourself from going insane.
1. Plan out your study sessions.
If you know you need to study more for a certain course make sure you make the time for that. Don’t study something you already know to avoid studying for what will take more time and effort.
2. Get those eight hours of sleep.
No one wants to wake up the next day to study when you’re running on three hours of sleep.
3. Don’t forget to eat.
I’m serious, you’re going to end up hangry if you don’t.
4. Don’t study in the same place every time.
The library gets really irritating when you have to force yourself to go there every single day. You'll never want to go to the library again.
5. Don’t just nap during your break time.
Instead, find something that you enjoy doing that will help you forget about your math exam for an hour or so. For example: go for a drive, take a walk, read a book or watch an episode of your favorite show. DO NOT binge watch, because after you’ll stress out even more.
6. Drink water.
Okay, let’s be real, coffee too. But drinking water will help you to stay focused. I mean, Bill Gates drinks water and I'd say he's doing just fine.
7. Remind yourself that it’s almost over.
This is the final stretch of the semester. Summer break is just around the corner and you won’t have to worry about any of this. Unless, of course, you’re taking summer courses.
8. Starting sooner is better than later.
Procrastination isn’t always a terrible thing. However, if you start studying for finals in the weeks prior to finals week you won’t be as stressed out about time management.
9. Reassure yourself.
Tell yourself that you can do this and that you're going to ace these exams. It will make you want to do well for yourself, not just because you have to.
These are just a few things to do to keep yourself sane during finals week, but the biggest one is motivating and reassuring yourself. Don't stress too much because it's almost over!
Good luck!