Advising Tip | Start Preparing for Finals: Start Early!

Tetyana Dovbnya

By Tetyana Dovbnya
International Student Advising Specialist / Academic Advisor

We still have four weeks before finals. Plenty of time, right? While some of you may still have quizzes, assignments, and labs before taking your final exam for a course, you can still begin planning your study schedule and materials for finals.

Therefore, your mantra for this week should be: I must start early!

Here are some tips to keep in mind while preparing for finals week:

• The recommended period to start studying for exams is two to three weeks in advance.
• Creating a master to-do list will help you manage the multiple classes you have to prep for.
• Sit down with your planner and figure out your exam dates and times. Work backward from those dates and mark out when each study session will happen.
• Be sure to set measurable goals and only focus on one section or chapter per session.
• Plan for about two hours each study session, and give yourself a break in the middle!
• Being creating study materials such as flashcards, quizzes, diagrams, mnemonic devices, etc.

Getting a head start on your exam preparations is sure to alleviate some of the stress that accompanies finals week. Get the ball rolling as soon as possible and you’re sure to ace whatever comes your way!