Finals are right around the corner, and college students across the nation are cramming and pulling all-nighters to survive all the stress. Are you prepared to tackle your finals? Here are 7 study tips to help you ace them all!

1. Study with Your Classmates

You don’t have to study by yourself. Try finding classmates that care about studying as much as you do!

• Make flashcards (or use websites like Quizlet) to quiz each other.
• Teach each other course content. By teaching, you force yourself to have a deep understanding of the course content.

2. Take breaks while studying

Studies show that taking breaks after a long session of studying can help increase your productivity when studying.

• Use the 50/10 study rule. Try studying for 50 minutes, taking a break for 10 minutes, and repeating.
• Avoid cramming. Cramming promotes temporary memorization, rather than having a deep understanding of course content. Many students do not remember material after a late night cram session.

3. Make studying a habit

Being disciplined with studying is difficult, but following a routine is much easier. If you make studying a habit, then you will be more encouraged to study every day.

• Study at the same time each day. Schedule time for studying at a time each day that you cannot miss. When you get off of work or school, after dinner each night, before bed, etc.
• Be diligent. Create your study habits, and stick to them. Setting an alarm in your phone reminding you to study will help tremendously.

4. Avoid multitasking while studying

Studying demands your full, undivided attention. Splitting your attention will decrease your productivity during study hours.

• Set aside time to dedicate to studying. Finish your daily responsibilities before studying, and ask for help from friends and family if you aren’t able to.
• Please turn off your phone. You won’t retain anything if you’re checking social media every 10 minutes. Save it for after your exams.

5. Get plenty of sleep

Sleeping should go without saying. A tired brain during finals is as good as a tired body during a 5K. The National Sleep Foundation recommends 7-9 hours of sleep per night.

• Make sleeping a routine. This will help regulate your body’s internal clock, helping you to fall asleep and wake up at the same time each day.
• Do not consume caffeine late in the day. Caffeine has many benefits, but your body retains caffeine for a very long time. We don’t recommend consuming caffeine past 2 pm.

6. Reach out for help

If you simply aren’t understanding course content, then keep in mind that there are many people involved in your course that could assist.

• See your professor during office hours. If your professor is available during office hours, then reach out to them for help. They may explain a difficult topic in a way that clicks with you.
• Ask a classmate. A classmate may have a different insight that could help you understand what may not make sense to you at first.

7. And most importantly…

Remember why you’re here! Nobody registers for a course to slack off and fail, but to develop themselves by passing. What matters the most is staying dedicated and intentional. Remember why you registered for this course in the first place, and where passing can take you.