Preparing for Final Exams

Happy almost-LDOC! Congratulations on reaching the end of the semester – that’s a huge accomplishment and you should take some time to reflect on everything that you’ve achieved this semester. We know that the end of the semester can be a stressful time with final exams coming up. As final exams approach, take some time to put a plan in place about how you will effectively use your time, including building in study time as well as time for maintaining your health. Here are some strategies and recommendations to help you navigate through the final exam period while staying healthy and supported:

Identify What to Study:

Take a look at your course materials, including lecture notes, textbooks, and past exams, to identify key topics likely to be tested.
Prioritize topics that you need to study based on your level of familiarity and the importance of each subject area (i.e. what percent of the exam is that content?)
Use a ranking system (1-3) to categorize topics based on your understanding: “I don’t know,” “I sort of know,” and “I know well.”

Figure Out How You Study Best:

Develop a study schedule that incorporates active learning strategies and allows for breaks and self-care.
Use the Pomodoro method (work for 25 minutes, take a 5 minute break) to structure study sessions and incorporate regular breaks to improve your focus and memory.
Take advantage of outdoor breaks to refresh your mind and maintain overall well-being.

Use Active Learning Strategies:

Teach the information to someone else.
Solve problems from memory.
Create concept maps to connect information.
Draft (and answer!) practice test questions.
Work with classmates in-person or via Zoom to discuss concepts.
Retake practice exams or quizzes.

Create a Finals Study Plan:

Determine the number of study hours needed for each exam and allocate time accordingly.
Use tools like calendars and planners to organize study sessions and set specific goals for each subject.
Incorporate breaks, meals, and rewards into your study plan to help with motivation and avoid burnout.

Take Care of Yourself:

Take breaks that involve a change of setting, such as going outside or to the gym, to help your mind relax and think about other things. This will help you feel refreshed and ready to work when you sit down to study next.
If you don’t have a meal plan, try meal-prepping so that you don’t have to think about cooking every day.
Build in time for 8 hours of sleep – this will help you to focus better during the day and be more productive.
Listen to your body. If you feel like you are straining yourself, take a break and return in half an hour.

Support Each Other:

Support your peers through study groups, peer teaching, and quizzing to improve both yours and your peers’ learning and retention.
If you are able, offer support to classmates by helping with tasks like proofreading essays and sharing study resources.
Celebrate each others’ achievements and try to maintain a positive attitude. Share strategies that work for you, both for studying and self-care. You could even consider doing your daily activities with others, such as cooking or exercising.

Reach Out for Help:

If you would like support with studying for exams, reviewing your writing, or building an effective study schedule, look into the Learning Center’s resources. You can make an appointment for writing coaching, academic coaching, and peer tutoring.

Although final exams can be stressful, these strategies will help you to stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Remember to build-in time for your basic needs and mental well-being – it can be easy to de-prioritize these things when we are busy or stressed, but maintaining your health will actually help you to be more successful and feel better while doing it. You’re almost there!