Don't Stress and You'll Ace that Test

[Jill Bledsoe]

As finals start to roll around, we start to freak out. Everyone turns into super student and starts trying to fix whatever mess they created over the course of the semester. It happens every semester.

The stress is usually brought on by all-nighters and cramming on top of an abundance of end-of-the-year festivities. Trying to juggle it all and still come out with a good grade can be overwhelming, but there are a few simple tips that can help you stay calm and focused this final exam season.

First it is important to prioritize. “Time management is key during finals,” said Maria Powell. Powell, a senior at Auburn University, has taken her fair share of final exams.

The first step in managing your time wisely is to make priorities. It can often be helpful to give yourself deadlines for each item on your priority list. This will give you a mental tracker of your studying progress. It will also give you something to look forward to, as we all love to mark a “To-do” off of a long list.

Next, try to do some sort of physical activity during the day. This may seem impossible when you are busy studying and wrapping up final projects, but it is vital in reducing stress. Even something as small as a 15-minute walk can help release pent-up anxiety and tension.

Healthy eating goes along with the exercise. It is important to give your body the right “brain food” as some like to call it. Eat a good breakfast and small meals throughout the day. This gives your mind and body the energy it needs to push through long days of studying.

While you may crave carbs and high-sugar foods, be wary. Unlike fruits and vegetables, the sugar in these foods will cause you to crash later. Taking in too much caffeine will have a similar effect and should also be avoided.

A good alternative to caffeine is plain ole water. A study in a middle school in the UK recently showed a correlation between water consumption and concentration. Results of the study showed that students who were hydrated were able to concentrated and stay focus on one thing more easily than those students not hydrated.

Easing up on the caffeine has more benefits, too. You will sleep better and a good night’s sleep is important when trying to retain information. This is especially true the night before your final. Remember to go to bed early, even if you think a few extra hours of studying are necessary. More than likely, you will not retain that information and will be too tired to focus in the morning.

Lastly, remember to set aside time each day to do something you enjoy. Whether it is reading a chapter out of a good book or just chilling on the couch, give your mind and body time to recharge. You deserve it!


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