Finals week is two weeks away! Are you prepared to ace your finals? Here are seven more effective methods to help you study.

Use campus resources

Your tuition pays for more than just classes. Take advantage of the Academic Success Center, Supplemental Instruction sessions, and the Writer’s Room. These services are staffed by professionals dedicated to helping you succeed academically.

Form Effective Study Groups

Studying with peers can significantly enhance your understanding. When you teach concepts to others, you solidify your knowledge. Remember: if you can’t explain it clearly, you haven’t truly mastered it yet.

Talk with your professors

Professors hold office hours specifically to support your learning journey. Meeting with them one-on-one can provide clarity on difficult concepts and show your dedication. Many instructors also offer special review sessions before major exams.

Look things up

When textbooks and lectures aren’t clicking, turn to resources like Khan Academy or YouTube tutorials. These platforms often present concepts in alternative ways that might resonate better with your learning style.

Take a breath

Stress can significantly impair cognitive function, especially during exams. Deep breathing increases oxygen flow to your brain, enhancing mental clarity and reducing anxiety.

Start Early

Don’t wait until the last minute to prepare for finals or complete major assignments. Begin studying and working on papers well in advance to avoid unnecessary stress and allow time for thorough understanding.

Eliminate Distractions

Your study environment significantly impacts your productivity:

• The multitasking myth: Focus on one task at a time for deeper learning
• If background noise helps you focus, choose instrumental music or white noise
• Avoid studying in your bedroom, where your bed invites sleep
• Put technology on “Do Not Disturb” mode during study sessions

Try not to stress it too much. After finals week is over, you’re going to be able to decompress and not have to even think about that essay you had to write or those equations you had to memorize. Your GPA doesn’t define you, so don’t sweat it; you’ll be okay.

To see some other ways to study for finals, check out our previous article here.