How to get through finals!

How do you get through finals, we know you are exhausted but how do you get the grades you want?

  • Break Tasks Into Smaller, More Manageable Chunks
    • At times, your volume of schoolwork can feel overwhelming. Try breaking down your tasks and assignments into small, more manageable chunks. Sometimes the hardest part is just starting. By focusing on one step at a time your projects, papers, or study material feel less daunting.
  • Prioritize Self-Care
    • When you’re feeling drained, taking care of your physical and mental health is key. If you’re feeling burnt out, allow yourself to take a break and recharge. It’s better to rest and return with a refreshed mindset than to continue working when you’re too exhausted to focus. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and taking breaks throughout the day. Even a short walk or a quick 10-minute meditation session can help recharge your batteries.
  • Set Specific, Achievable Goals
    • Rather than thinking about everything you need to accomplish at once, set specific and realistic goals for yourself. For instance, try setting a goal like ‘I’ll write 300 words of my essay in one hour’ or ‘I’ll study for this one course for 45 minutes straight before taking a break’ Reaching these smaller goals can help build your momentum and motivation.
  • Ask for Support
    • If you’re struggling to understand assignment instructions, key terms or study material don’t hesitate to reach out to your professor, tutors, or classmates. They can provide you with the correct answers or just be a support system to talk things through to support you and relieve some of that stress.
  • Stay Organized
    • Utilize a planner or set reminders on your phone to keep track of deadlines and assignments. Knowing exactly what you need to do and when it needs to be done can help you avoid last-minute procrastination and direct your energy where it’s needed most.
  • Remember Your “Why”
    • Take a moment to remind yourself why you’re in school. Revisit your long-term goals, whether it’s graduating, landing your dream job, or making a positive impact on your community. Keeping your “why” in mind can help you push through moments of exhaustion.
  • Celebrating the Small Wins
    • After completing each task, treat yourself to a reward or a break. Positive reinforcement can make the process more enjoyable and motivate you to keep going.
  • Avoid Perfectionism
    • Sometimes it’s easy to get stuck trying to make everything perfect. Instead, focus on doing your best and getting things done. Striving for an unideal depiction of perfection can lead to burnout and procrastination.

Good luck on finals Cougs!

By Alicia Petersen
Alicia Petersen Assistant Director