Ten Study Tips When Preparing For Finals
Written By: Elainey Bass
As finals are quickly approaching, one thing is clear: THE PRESSURE IS GETTING WORSER!! By this time, most students have finally adjusted to balancing school and social life, and the thought of tackling another obstacle is merely impossible. For some, this may even be their last semester before they get to walk the stage for their diploma. No matter the circumstance, tensions always run high at the close of a semester — but remember you’re not alone! Whether you’re bugging your favorite professor during office hours, or cramming in a study session with your friends, finals week is really what you make it. To help navigate finals week like a true scholar, here are ten tips that’ll help guide you to the finish line.
1. Plan Ahead/Make a Study Schedule
No one likes to deal with last minute priorities. To alleviate any burnout and extra stress, make a study schedule for yourself. Put time aside to look over any past tests, quizzes, and cheat sheets so that way you aren’t forcing yourself to make time; it’s already a part of your day!
2. Utilize Campus Resources
I don’t know about you, but I love a good study session in the library with friends. Take advantage of the study spaces on your campus, like the library, or you can even stop by your professor’s office hours. Some campuses even offer campus-wide study sessions for students to learn and share best practices with each other.
3. Form Study Groups
Like I mentioned above, I love studying with friends, especially if we have the same classes. Collaborating with friends and classmates helps you to go over things you might have missed or skipped over in class. While these sessions can be fun and helpful, you also have to be mindful to not get distracted. It’s super easy to have side conversations, and before you know it, it’s late and no one studied anything!
4. Incorporate Technology
Lucky for our generation, we have access to so many apps and softwares that nearly make it impossible for us to fail. Apps like Quizlet and AI search engines can create effective flashcards and study sheets for you to save time. YouTube videos are also helpful if you need to hear about your topic from another angle.
5. GO TO YOUR PROFESSOR’S OFFICE HOURS
I briefly mentioned this on Tip 2, but I can’t stress enough how important this is. Your professors want to see you win, and most of them have no problem dropping gems to help you ace your final. Showing up displays to your professor that you truly care about your grade and the material that you’re learning. You never know; they maybe even slide you a few extra points just for stopping by!
6. Remember Your “Why”
When you’re tired and drained from your studies, it’s easy to slip into a mindset of “I don’t want to do this anymore.” Don’t let temporary frustrations lead you to permanent decisions. Remember why you chose your HBCU, the impact that you want to leave, and who you’re doing this for. Let the motivation and end results push you to keep going.
7. Use Your HBCU Network
I’ve said it once, and I’m going to say it again .. Your network is your net worth! Don’t be afraid to reach out to upperclassmen and alumni that have been where you are, especially if they’ve taken the class before. Ask them for study tips and old study guides so you can cover the topic in all areas.
8. Take Breaks for Self-Care
Maintaining your mental health is very important during this time. It’s so easy to get wrapped into your work that you forget to check in with yourself. Did you eat today? Did you treat yourself after a productive study session? Find ways to recenter yourself so that you can continue your scholarly duties.
9. Mix It Up
Studying one thing for a long period of time can become boring and affect your work ethic. Studying different subjects in different environments will keep things fresh and can also keep you engaged with the material. For example, maybe review one course in the library and another course in your dorm.
10. Don’t Forget the Power of Prayer and Community
Most HBCU students are spiritual and believe in the power of prayer. Take a moment to pray, meditate, or affirm yourself before you take your tests. It’s also important to lean on your friends and family for encouragement. A little pep talk can go a long way, and it’s always nice to be reminded that you have people in your corner rooting for you!
I know all of this is easier said than done, but you can do it! The pressure can feel overwhelming, but don’t forget: as an HBCU student you are already a part of a legacy built on resilience and excellence that has prepared you for moments like this. Lock in, thug it out, and finish strong!