I'm sure you are all well aware that finals week is just around the corner. Most people associate this week as the week from hell, full of all-nighters, lots of coffee, and maybe even a few tears. However, it does not have to be that way! Let me show you a more realistic way to survive finals week!

1. Start Studying WAY In Advance.

I know I know, it's a pain in the ass. The weather is nicer and all you want to do is darty outside with your friends when the weekends roll around. However, if you set a little bit of time on the weekends to study I guarantee you'll feel a whole lot less stressed out come finals week. Cramming the night before just adds unnecessary stress that can totally be avoided if you just plan it out.

2. Take Short Breaks.

I know this seems obvious, but I couldn't even tell you the amount of my friends that just continue to study for hours on end with no breaks in between. You physically cannot pay attention for that long so, I believe you have earned yourself a break. That being said, don't end up watching funny cat videos on YouTube for an hour (we've all been there one way or another). Try to limit your break from 5-10 minutes. Get someone to eat if you're hungry or a drink to recharge! Taking effective breaks will allow you to come back to studying feeling more relaxed.

3. Be Smart About Caffeine Consumption.

The two o'clock feeling is a real thing ladies and gents. Highly caffeinated drinks such as coffee tend to make you crash after a certain amount of time. If you're an avid coffee drinker that is perfectly fine, but make sure to time your cups closely to your exam. Nobody wants to feel groggy or drained when they're trying to focus right? Didn't think so. If you're not as into coffee, try a lightly caffinated tea. This will still give you a little boost without the full out coffee crash.

4. Eat Breakfast.

Woah no way right? I'm sure you didn't see that one coming. And as I know I'm not your mother, I do mean it when I say that it is important to at least have something in your stomach before taking an exam. I understand that some of us are not big fans of eating breakfast in general, myself included. You don't need to have a full out pancakes, eggs and bacon spread, but a simple granola bar, piece of fruit or even a bowl of cereal will suffice. Even just a little something will give you the energy and nutrients you need to stay awake for those early finals.

3. Avoid All-Nighters At All Cost.

I would say only do this if you ABSOLUTELY have no other option. Pulling an all-nighter may seem like a good idea at the time however, that lack of sleep will cause you to not be alert during your test and may negatively impact your scores. That being said, make time to study during the day! Schedule your time wisely so you can get the most sleep possible. More sleep= a happier you.

4. RELAX.

Even if your grade depends on the results of this exam, try to remain calm. You'll actually end up wasting more time freaking out about it than you will studying. Treat yourself to your favorite Starbucks drink if you've been staying on track. Get in an episode of your favorite show. Meet up with a friend for dinner. Your life does not have to come to a screeching halt during finals week. Remember to reward yourself and stay on track and you'll be just fine! Good luck on finals my fellow Redbirds!