It can be hard to find time to do enjoyable things during finals season. Activities like reading a good book or watching a show are great ways to take a brain break. I also recommend spending time with family and friends to avoid feeling isolated. Balancing study sessions with fun activities can lead to better concentration and a more positive attitude. 

Human interaction and quality time can be really refreshing, especially after reviewing material for an extended period of time. According to the Mayo Clinic, some of the benefits of spending time with loved ones are boosted happiness, lowered stress and an avoidance of bad habits. 

Preparing for finals typically involves countless hours of sitting at a desk and staring at a screen. While a swivel in a desk chair can be fun for a few minutes, the reality is that it’s not enough movement. Physical activity is a great way to release some energy and clear the mind during this high-pressure time. 

According to Open Universities Australia, even 20 minutes of exercise before studying can improve the ability to concentrate. There are many ways to get active during preparation for finals week and between test days. Whether it be going for a run on a path or a treadmill, playing a sport with a friend or simply taking a stroll through the neighborhood, there are endless options to get blood flowing to increase productivity.

It is often difficult to close the computer or put down study material to go to bed, knowing that there is so much information to study. Despite this, according to the Sleep Foundation, students need to be well-rested in order to achieve maximum performance on tests. However, this doesn’t just mean getting eight hours of sleep the night before an exam. It is important to be on a consistent sleep schedule a few weeks before finals to create consistent habits. 

In addition to prioritizing sleep, general rest is a good way to recharge the mind for increased productivity. Do not be afraid to take naps in between study sessions. According to University College London, even brief naps of 5-15 minutes can instantly improve how people perform mentally.

Organization is key to being prepared for finals. Without organization, work and studying will feel unmanageable. It is important to get organized for finals early on by pulling together notes for distinct classes and units to see what content needs to be studied the most before exams. 

Keeping an organized schedule is also crucial for successful studying. Start planning a study calendar to avoid a buildup of material and set aside time every night to review at least one subject for at least a month prior to finals. Additionally, Learning Specialist and sophomore dean Brett Kugler has built a study schedule and holds study sessions for all students who are interested in getting organized.