'Twas the night before finals, when all through the campus
All the students were stirring, even their computer mice
Final papers were hardly finished but made with lots of care
In hopes that professor Multz will pass us with an A

Finals week is among us. We have been preparing all semester for this moment. Deadlines, research papers, and the stress... you and I both know we are ready for a break. But, finals is important and there is no time for slacking and procrastination. Here are some helpful tips to help you have a successful finals week without going crazy!

1. Take A Break

Often times, I find myself dwelling on my assignments. That one question that I just can't figure out or trying to figure out how to begin my research paper. I can get so caught up in one small detail and sometimes it just gets the best of me. Since finals is near, I found that spending too much time on homework might not be the best way to study, retain the information, and or get anywhere with you work.

Instead of getting worked up... walk away and get some fresh air, drink some water, then come back!

2. Study Groups

We all have our own studying techniques. Some of us are the 'skim through and can get an A' and some of us are the cram and jam and hope for the best' type students. Studying alone can be great because there are no distractions and you can pace yourself. However, you may find that studying in groups can be just as beneficial if not more than studying alone. Here are a few reasons why it may just be better!

Increase Retention

Expands Access to Information

Boots Motivation

3. Take Another Break

4. Study With Tea Not Coffee

I am a veteran in the art of coffee drinking, and if you are like me then you would know that sometimes coffee can make you feel ready for a nap.

"Tea has the same amount of caffeine as coffee, and while both are stimulants, coffee has a much bigger depressing effect (not making you sad but reducing your energy levels) than tea, meaning that while both tea and coffee will give you a bigger rush of caffeine, with coffee, the high will also last shorter and drop quicker. If you’re wanting something to keep you going through the work day, tea is the best choice." - 10 Benefits of Drinking Tea Over Coffee

5. Another Break Won't Hurt

6. Prioritize What Needs to Be Done First

Common sense at its finest... and yes people actually do, do this. No need to work on the project that is due last.

7. Last Break

8. Preparation but Do Not Over Prep

Even the professors tell their students this, it that if you have done you're studying, get some good sleep and do not study the day of your final. You might stress yourself out and forget something you may already know.

Once you have completed finals you now have no obligations whatsoever! Enjoy your Winter Break and May your grades be Merry!