Mental breakdowns, all nighters, drinking too much coffee: Finals are coming at us at full force. Here is a list of our top 10 tips on how to prepare for finals.

TIP 1: Do the study guide

It may not be for a grade, but teachers have made it specifically for the exam. That means most of the information you need to know for the exam is on that review. Do the guide and you’ll not only be more prepared, but you will also know what you need to work on.

TIP 2: Ask questions

If you know you’re having trouble understanding certain material, go into tutoring before it’s too late. Asking questions is a great way to review, gain deeper knowledge of needed knowledge, and show teachers you’re trying. If you missed it on the homework and don’t understand why, you probably need to review the material.

TIP 3: Start early

Don’t wait until the night before your exam to start reviewing. Not only will starting your studying early allow you to better retain knowledge, but it will also allow you to have more fun reviewing. Find resources online that are trustworthy, and research the material yourself. You can learn more than required and that knowledge may help you with what is required.

TIP 4: Get sleep

 Getting a good night of sleep will help you be on time to your testing room and stay focused during the exam. This ties in with not cramming the night before the exam. After all, it’s better to get more sleep than to get more time studying.

TIP 5: Take breaks

You don’t have to study for six hours straight. It’s actually better for you to split up time by taking little breaks in between studying. You’re brain will get better rest this way and you’ll have more fun, less stress. 

TIP 6: Have snacks

Eating yummy treats while studying is great motivation. Tell yourself you can only have another bite after you’ve done two questions or topics. This way, you’ll be rewarded while you study. 

TIP 7: Study with friends

Reviewing with friends can be super fun and helpful. Quiz each other and create funny ways to memorize the information. You’ll be surprised how much you learn when you’re laughing.

TIP 8: Prioritize, prioritize, prioritize

Make a plan: you probably know by now which exams will be the hardest. Start with those, then after you know that material, you can study for the easier exams. Start with what you don’t know, then move to what you kind of know.

TIP 9: Teach others

Learning material and teaching material are very different things. Teaching classmates can help you to better retain the knowledge. You will no longer be reading information, but telling it.

TIP 10: Stay healthy!

Eat a nutritious breakfast the morning before each exam and avoid caffeine. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated and make sure to get to bed early the night before. Staying healthy will help you keep a clear mind.