Finals are right around the corner. Whether you are a senior, junior, sophomore, or freshman, finals will be mid to the end of May.

Most students have five to seven classes, and depending on your course load, you can have a lot of studying to do before test day. It is important that you feel as prepared as possible before your tests, and studying earlier rather than later can prevent a lack of sleep, stress, and last-minute studying.

As a senior who has been through multiple finals weeks, I have gathered a few tips that allowed me to achieve the goals I wanted during finals week. Below is my comprised list of tips and tricks that can make your finals week a breeze, and you’ll be on your way to a peaceful and well-deserved summer break.

Tip #1: Create a Motivating Study Space

Have a couple of reliable spaces where you can focus and study your content, whether that be a quiet coffee shop, a library, a teacher’s classroom, or a desk at home. As long as the space motivates you to stay focused, isn’t too loud, and is comfortable, then you are setting yourself up for the best possible results! In this space, having earbuds can help block out distracting noise, and having a clock can help keep track of your studying schedule and timeline.

Tip #2: Create a Study Schedule

Create a study schedule that accounts for all of your classes and give each class the adequate amount of time needed to complete your studying. Writing down a subject you’re going to study each day, what you aim to get done during that time, or scheduling breaks into your study time are all beneficial ways to keep your learning organized and beneficial.

Tip #3: Prioritize…
When creating a study schedule, prioritizing certain classes can help bring out the best results for your finals. If I have a 100% in chemistry and an 89% in biology, I’d want to allot more time to study for my biology class to ensure I can get a score that will give me the grade I want to get in that class. Classes that you find to be more challenging should be given more time to review content rather than classes you find easier. In addition to prioritizing, you should also prioritize yourself. Prioritize your sleep, health, and relationships during the end of the school year. It is so easy to stay caught up on your grades which of course are important; however, finding time for healthy habits is equally (if not more important) than high school grades!

Tip #4: Ask Questions
Teachers are here to help! One of the many luxuries of beginning to study for finals earlier rather than later is that it allows you to ask teachers questions on the content you may find challenging. Going straight to your teacher rather than the internet will give you a more concise answer and more beneficial help.

Tip #5: Reward Yourself!
Setting goals for yourself is a must when studying for finals. When you achieve those goals you can also reward yourself! For example, when you finish all your practice quizzes in a certain class, maybe you can reward yourself with a trip to Starbucks or a sweet treat from the store. Rewarding yourself can help motivate you to do your best work but also is just fun in general! Finishing finals is an achievement in itself, so make sure to give yourself credit after all your hard work!