2008 Woodie Awards
Study tips for students dreading finals
Adria Eichner
Issue date: 12/7/04 Section: Features
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As the fall semester comes to an end, many WCU students take a well deserved sigh of relief. That is, until they realize that there still remains a rather daunting and stressful task that must be taken care of before that elusive winter break takes over. That dreaded obstacle is the week of final exams, and for many students this week can be the most feared several days of the entire semester. Although there is no denying that finals are certainly a valid concern, these tests do not have to be the monster task that they are often perceived to be. With a little bit of preparation and a steady game plan, any student can get through this last hurdle with not only their sanity, but also a passing grade. Step 1: Plan Ahead Studying is most stressful when students wait until the last minute to begin. Procrastination is not a wise choice when it comes to getting ready for a fi- nal exam because there is often a large amount of information that needs to be reviewed.
Even if a final is not cumulative, the fact that most people have several tests within a few days can overload just about anyone. By studying some information several days in advance of the test and saving only a small amount for the night before, much of the unnecessary stress can be avoided. Although it is certainly dif- ficult to begin studying any earlier than necessary, the chance to actually relax on the night before a big exam can only be enjoyed with careful planning. It is a great reward to be finished early, though, when everyone else is on the brink of a nervous breakdown hours before their finals. Step 2: Ask What to Study Although most professors will not give students the exact questions for the exam, many are willing to give out helpful tips and specific examples that could be of importance. If a teacher is unavailable for questions during class time, take advantage of their office hours which should be stated in the class syllabus.
This is also a good opportunity to get the professorʼs full attention and better information. If even a few unnecessary pages or topics can be eliminated from the studying agenda, that is still time that can be used for more important areas. No one likes to do work that is unappreciated, but often students need to put forth the extra effort to ask about this type of information. Step 3: Utilize Your Best Studying Technique Studying for finals is not the ideal time to try new studying tactics. Stick with what works best, and utilize your strengths. If working alone is a preferred method, make sure to stay motivated and on-track during each study session.
Even if a final is not cumulative, the fact that most people have several tests within a few days can overload just about anyone. By studying some information several days in advance of the test and saving only a small amount for the night before, much of the unnecessary stress can be avoided. Although it is certainly dif- ficult to begin studying any earlier than necessary, the chance to actually relax on the night before a big exam can only be enjoyed with careful planning. It is a great reward to be finished early, though, when everyone else is on the brink of a nervous breakdown hours before their finals. Step 2: Ask What to Study Although most professors will not give students the exact questions for the exam, many are willing to give out helpful tips and specific examples that could be of importance. If a teacher is unavailable for questions during class time, take advantage of their office hours which should be stated in the class syllabus.
This is also a good opportunity to get the professorʼs full attention and better information. If even a few unnecessary pages or topics can be eliminated from the studying agenda, that is still time that can be used for more important areas. No one likes to do work that is unappreciated, but often students need to put forth the extra effort to ask about this type of information. Step 3: Utilize Your Best Studying Technique Studying for finals is not the ideal time to try new studying tactics. Stick with what works best, and utilize your strengths. If working alone is a preferred method, make sure to stay motivated and on-track during each study session.
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