Hello, again! Hope everyone had a fantastic Thanksgiving break!!! Christmas break is around the corner, but each college student must cross the finals bridge before enjoying the frivolities of the holidays. I doubt that Edvard Munch was thinking of final exams when he painted The Scream, but that is often the sentiment that the last week of the semester elicits. Fear not! This post offers tips for success.
- Start studying early. Cramming before a test does not allow the mind to fully digest and synthesize information. Find out what time of day is personally most conducive to studying and put that time in your planner, in your phone, on your mini fridge…you get the idea.
- Make studying fun! Plan a group study session complete with snacks if you retain knowledge when interacting with others. If you learn better solo but still want to have fun, try turning the information on your note cards (which you can obtain in the SSS computer lab) into a game! Here are a couple fun sites:
Make your own crossword puzzle: http://puzzlemaker.discoveryeducation.com/CrissCrossSetupForm.asp
Create your own Jeopardy game: https://jeopardylabs.com/
3. Get some rest: With everything from late-night finals breakfasts to Nintendo Switch battles beckoning you to stay awake “just 5 more minutes,” remember to get sufficient shut-eye before morning exams.
4. Color-code your notes: One easy and fun way to prioritize the importance of your notes is by picking out colors to signify the significance of each fact and figure.
5. Breathe: Before the big test, take a moment to take a few big breaths and center your thoughts. Arrive a bit early if possible so you don’t feel flustered. You’ve got this.
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