How to Study for Finals
by Brittany Cole
With the holidays upon us
and finals getting closer, it’s easy to start stressing
out. Therefore, this article is dedicated to providing some simple
tips for studying that will help you relax and ace your finals.
Ø The week and weekend before: lay low and look over your
notes. Maybe go shopping or see a funny movie to relieve your
stress.
Ø Don’t wait until the night before to study! Multiple
short sessions are better than one long ‘cram session.’
Ø Get LOTS of sleep before and during finals week! Without
sleep, it’s harder to concentrate while studying and more
difficult to remember all you’ve studied on the day of the
test.
Ø Always eat a healthy breakfast. It’s a fact that
those who eat a good breakfast remember more, react quicker, are
more creative throughout the day, make fewer mistakes and are
more alert than those who skip breakfast altogether. Then continue
to snack throughout the day.
o A list of some good brain power foods: Low fat yogurt, turkey,
beef, chicken, fish, skim milk, eggs, cheese, nuts, whole wheat
bread, veggies, fruit, peanut butter, raisins, avocados, and whole
grain fortified cereal.
o Try to avoid sugary foods or cereals, breads, artificial sweeteners
or preservatives, and candy. However, dark chocolate, in moderation,
is a great source of brain food.
Ø Drink lots of water or vitamin water. Water hydrates
your mind and body and speeds up brain function. A limited amount
of caffeine is also said to increase concentration, provide faster
responses and quicker thinking, so try energy drinks, Starbucks,
caffeinated soda, or tea. But be careful not to drink too much!
Ø If you happen to have vitamins on hand or are willing
to go out and buy some:
o B-complex is essential- it contains B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12.
These create mental clarity, help sustain energy, increase memory,
and relieve stress and fatigue, Iron can build your brain power,
Zinc for memory and concentration, Gingko Biloba for increased
blood flow to the brain which improves memory, and Ginseng improves
your body’s ability to cope with stress. These are all good
vitamins for finals time.
Ø Light exercise is also a good way to relieve stress and
allow you to gain better concentration. So take your dog for a
walk or ride your bike around the block.
Ø Study groups are always helpful (if you actually get
some work done).
Ø Be sure to complete any study guides your teachers hand
out so you can become confident with the material.
Ø As Mr. Coney would encourage his seniors: buy a recorder!
It’s that simple.
Ø Repetition is important! Depending on whether you’re
better with visual or verbal: re-write or re-read your notes aloud
over and over as you go to engrain them in your mind. Then have
a friend or parent quiz you on your notes.
Ø Create some helpful tools such as flashcards, outlines,
charts, diagrams, graphs and acronyms.
Ø Take advantage of extra time in class after a final and
have your notes ready to look over for your next test.
Ø Now is a great time for tutoring to help you with any
areas you’re uncertain about. Ask your teachers for their
available days/times.
Ø During the week of finals, only look over the next day’s
tests so you don’t cram your brain with too much.
Ø Take breaks while your studying! Grab a snack or check
your e-mail (or myspace) to allow yourself some time off.
Ø Don’t stress out! Just remember: you get out early
and after these few days it’s break!
Ø Relax and enjoy your Christmas break and have a Happy
New Year!
