With the end of the school year fast approaching, summer is almost in reach. Before that blissful time arrives, however, there’s one more significant hurdle: finals week. Final exams can be stressful for even the most devoted students, as they try to balance multiple tests, papers, and projects in a short span of time.
The following strategies can safeguard against burnout and help your child get the most from their study routine.
Start Early
Whenever possible, start studying for exams early. Research shows that cramming doesn’t usually work, so ask teachers about final exams before the end of the term. As you gather information about what to expect, ask clarifying questions about the format of the exam. Will it be multiple choice, essay questions, or a combination? The more you know in advance, the better you can prepare. Once you have information on the content of the exam, create a schedule to cover the material over the course of a few weeks.
Set Goals and Prioritize
Studying is an ongoing process, and it can feel overwhelming when you have a lot to cover. Before you jump into studying for exams, make a list of what you want to accomplish in a given study session. Focus on one subject at a time and list each sub-topic you want to cover in your study session. Be realistic about what you can do in the time you have. Rather than working for a long time and feeling like you haven’t finished anything, you can check your list and see how much you’ve covered.
Avoid Distractions
Distractions can disrupt even the most productive study session. Create a study space that offers the fewest distractions by removing any unnecessary interruptions or temptations.
Take Breaks
Just as with physical exercise, your brain needs a chance to rest and recuperate when you’re giving it a workout. For every hour that you study, take a fifteen minute break to process. Go for a short walk, have a healthy snack, or talk to a friend. Set a timer to make sure your short break doesn’t run over, and get back to work as soon as the timer goes off.
Rest Up, Eat Right, and Exercise
Stress can increase your chances of getting sick. Indeed, it’s extra important to take care of yourself during busy periods like the end of the school year. As much as possible, get enough sleep, eat balanced meals, and find ways to get activity into your day. A healthy body will give you the energy to ace your finals.
Pediatric Associates of Franklin would like to wish all students the best of luck with final exams and completing the school year. Congratulations to all of the graduates!
The information and content on our website should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment or advice from your doctor.
