Preparing for Finals

The last few weeks of school scream the word “tests” with the ACT on many students’ minds and finals around the corner. Like many sentinels, you may think that reading through your notes the night before finals will crack you an A, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. It's time to start learning good study habits and take care of your body in preparation for the big test.

  Contrary to popular belief, simply reading material to study is NOT studying, but closer to “pre-studying”. Even highlighting and underlining won’t get you to retain information, it just keeps you from falling asleep! Instead, practice active studying by keeping your sessions engaging. Use the main information you have highlighted and put it into your own quiz, teach the information to others (level 4!), and connect the information to your own experiences. 

Cramming your brain with information the night before finals will not help you remember information, and is actually more hurtful than good due to the lack of concentration and retention. Instead, it’s best to study each class for a short time each day, plenty of time before the big day. Remember, how you use your study time is more important than how long you study.

Eating a good breakfast is the next best thing to do to be successful for the big test. Complex carbohydrates and protein, like whole wheat cereal, oatmeal, and eggs, will keep your mind sharp. Lastly, make sure to arrive at the test early. This will help decrease any nerves that linger and reach a positive state of mind before the bell.

Even though finals can be nerve racking, short and focused active study sessions, combined with good self care the day leading up to the big day will guarantee your top performance.