The semester is coming to a close, Christmas break is approaching, and you start to get excited about spending time with your family and friends back home. But there is one thing in your way…Finals. Finals are the WOAT. You lose even more sleep, you’re always on edge, and your under-eye circles could be confused with a black eye. I have constructed a plan for you to guarantee that you don’t lose your mind during finals and have a mental breakdown on the phone with your mother.

1. Write down everything that is due

This allows you to see everything you need to do. I put it in my notes in class order. It breaks down things into categories and it isn’t cluttered with things that are of less importance.

2. Use a calendar

Since you already have this to do list, schedule it on your calendar. I am a paper planner type of person (God Bless Erin Condren) but there are plenty of online calendar options. Just use it.

3. Schedule in the gym

Since studying and writing papers is usually done sitting, it is so important to schedule in time to go to the gym. You should do this anyway, but during this week, it is vital that you go to a workout class or the gym.

4. Schedule in your time

Since you will be spending the majority of your time doing school work it is important to take some time for yourself. But make sure it is after you actually do some actual studying or writing.

5. Meal prep

I like to meal prep in general because I don’t like cooking every night of the week but it is important during dead week and finals week to prep. It keeps you from stress eating and wasting precious study time cooking.

6. Keep it clean

Don’t let your messy lifestyle distract you. Keep on top of your dirty laundry, load the dishwasher, and make your bed.

7. Be nice

I know it is super easy to get into a negative mindset about finals but everyone is in the same boat as you. Don’t let it overpower your good mood. It is just for a week, you got this!!