It seems like just yesterday we were all traveling back to campus from our long winter break. Now it’s the beginning of March, and it’s time to reflect and see if those goals and New Year’s Resolutions are on the road to being reached. With a limited number of class meetings left in the term and finals quickly approaching, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed with everything that is still left to be accomplished.
This is the time of the term that can really make or break those grades that you’ve been working so hard for. It’s so important to stay focused! In this article, I am going to go through a checklist of six things that you can do to to set yourself up for a productive and successful end of your term.
Tip #1: Find your perfect study place
I came to the conclusion last year that as much as I’d like to be, I’m just not a “do my work in my bedroom” type of person. I need a desk and really good lighting in order to be fully productive. Having a separation between sleep, relaxation, and work is very important; and one of the best ways to encourage this separation mentally is to find your optimal study places. Dartmouth has no shortage of study spots. From the Baker Library tower room to the Rauner Special Collections Library, to the individual pods at the Sanborn House Library, you can find a place for you!
Tip #2: Don’t Procrastinate
When you set aside time to study and get work done, make sure that you are optimizing your time as much as possible. If you feel your mind wandering, do your best to refocus yourself. Take breaks when you need them! Whether you use the Pomodoro Method or you like to work in large, uninterrupted chunks, make sure that you are following your study plan and staying motivated throughout your study sessions.
Tip #3: Get Enough Sleep
Everyone needs a different amount of sleep in order to be their healthiest and best self. Personally, I need seven to eight hours of sleep every night. Whether you need a little less or a little more, make sure that you’re getting enough sleep in order to feel rested. Not getting enough sleep can greatly affect mental efficiency, which is especially important with finals approaching!
Tip #4: Get Your Priorities in Check
Make sure to put your studies first during the final weeks/days of the term. It can be easy to try to fit in extra time with your friends before the term ends or to daydream about spring break trips and the memories that you’ll make while you're on them. However, it’s important to stay in the present for now and concentrate your effort on finishing your papers and studying for your finals!
Tip #5: Write Down Your Goals/Reminders
This can be done a number of ways. You can use your phone alarm system, a written planner, your notes app, your reminder app, a wall calendar, etc. Just find a system that works for you to ensure that you do not fall behind during this hectic time of the term. Don’t be afraid to also set daily goals and benchmarks to hit so you know exactly where to allot your time and why you are doing so.
Tip #6: Treat Yourself
Lastly, plan out what to do in your off time from studying. Prioritizing your study time is important, but it is equally important to have a balance between work and play. Set aside some time for you to watch some Netflix, do some yoga, cook, etc.- whatever relaxes you. Just make sure you are keeping track of how long your study breaks should be so that you know when to get back to work.
Resources:
- Taylor Farmon, “10 Tips to Finish the Semester Strong”
- Eliana Dubosar, “7 Tips For Finishing The Semester With Your Sanity In Tact”
- Raye Pernsteiner, “4 Ways to Finish Off the Semester Strong”