Our first set of finals are coming up this year, bringing nerves, anxiety, stress, and fear for not only for freshmen but for returning students as well. For freshmen who are dealing with their first finals week, it may be helpful to talk to an older friend who has dealt with these big tests before. In case you don’t have that resource available, here are some tips on how to successfully prepare for finals from some upperclassmen at South.
- Start Early and Spread it Out
Senior Owen Gerber suggests avoiding leaving all your studying to the last minute. “It’s easy to become distracted and procrastinate because no one likes studying,” Gerber said. He advises buckling down early and spreading your studying out. “Doing a little bit each day will get you more prepared than cramming.”
- Find Your Study Method
Senior Allie Shute emphasizes finding a study method that works for you. She believes that experimenting with different environments and methods of studying is key until you find the one that suits you best. “It took me a while to figure out, but I’m able to study best in a dim environment with acoustic music,” Shute said, “that’s just me though – everyone has to find their thing.”
- Take Care of Your Body
Senior Dominic Swartz’s perspective is all about self care and discipline. Swartz highlights the importance of basic things like having energy and having good nutrition before big tests. “Sleep, exercise, and good meals are way more important than everyone thinks,” Swartz says. “Eating healthy and feeling rested will help your morale and make you feel good about yourself, which will translate to your test taking ability.” Swartz recommends getting eight hours of sleep every night of finals week, and filling up on fruits and vegetables before test day.
- Use School TIme and Ask Teachers for Help
Senior Philip Wilkinson’s biggest tip is to take advantage of panther plus time and review periods. Wilkinson believes that teachers are the best source of support and information if you are struggling. “They have all the answers. They literally taught the class,” Wilkinson exclaimed. He believes strongly in using class time wisely, and that if you work in school, it will minimize the time you have to work out of school. “Just be productive when you’re supposed to be and you won’t have to put any extra effort in,”
- Believe in Yourself
Last but not least, performing well on finals has all to do with confidence. All the seniors questioned answered that in order to do well on final exams, you have to tell yourself that you will do well. Having the ‘I can do this’ mentality is key for success not only on tests, but in all walks of life, carrying on into new experiences in college and in future careers.
