As we prepare for the end of the semester and finals week, we thought, what better way to wind down than to share a few tips on preparation, studying and remaining stress-free. While I found an abundance of lists, suggestions and infographics, I decided to pick and choose at my leisure those I believed had substance and value.

This is just the beginning so be sure to check back and see what other tips we provide and feel free to share your own.

1. Shed some commitments. You’ll find you have a lot easier time studying if you make extra time for it. Put off any unnecessary social obligations or family commitments. Even a few strategically placed extra hours can make the difference between doing just OK on finals and doing a really great job.

2. Figure out what’s covered. One of the most important things you need to be clear about is what materials are going to be tested on the final. Are readings and discussion sections included, or is the final going to focus almost exclusively on material from the lectures? Is the final going to concentrate on materials since the midterm or is it going to be a comprehensive or cumulative final? Knowing the extent—and the limits—of the exam will make it much easier to organize and structure your studying.

3. Be sure to develop your answers fully. Many students don’t realize that, on essay exams, part of what’s being graded is how well you develop and explain your answer, not just how correct it is. Consider explaining your points in more detail so that someone unfamiliar with the answer would know, just from what you say, what the answer is.

4. Pace yourself. Two or three hours is a long time. Think of the final exam as a work session, divided into a number of sub-sessions. Take a few-minute break between each question or part. Approach each question separately from the rest.

5. Study with a group only if it makes sense. Many students believe (mistakenly) that a study group always affords an advantage: more brain power plus peer pressure to crack the books. This works well when your study buddies are at least as smart as you. Exam time isn’t charity time.

Here are a few additional links to help you find what tips and suggestions may suit you.

5 Tips and Tricks to Make Your Finals Week a Success

Surviving Finals Week: 7 No Fail Tips

5 not-so-obvious tips for finals week

And there you have it! A pretty well rounded list as well as a few additional tips courtesy of links to help you combat those sleepless nights, panic stricken thoughts and the culmination of a long semester. We wish you all the best!

Check back for additional posts and Happy Studying