Students give advice for upcoming finals

By Emily Kim,

Bluedevilhub.com Staff–

The semester is coming to an end, meaning one thing: the dreaded finals week is upon us. Students are bound to experience copious amounts of stress to ace the tests and anxiousness for the upcoming Christmas break.

A recent survey in the Chronicle of Higher Education says that students are not studying enough, and suggests students should spend 25 hours a week studying. There are a variety of ways to prepare for finals, however, and a few students shared what methods work best for them.

Sophomore James Richardson says cramming is the best option.

“Just study two hours the night before, because then there is more pressure to learn all the material and a lesser chance of getting distracted,” Richardson said.

However, sophomore Brendan Deas disagrees with Richardson. Deas thinks that it is best to give yourself a copious amount of time to study.

“I recommend going to the Academic Improvement Center downtown because they really help me out a lot. Making flashcards can also be really helpful. Make sure to give yourself time to prepare,” Deas said.

Deas is right on track, because, according to the Huffington Post, scientists say that writing everything down will reinforce your memory, and shorten study time.

William J. Rapaport, who works at the State University of New York at Buffalo in the Center for Cognitive science, said in a guide of study tips he published on his website, that taking complete notes is the key to succeeding in a class.

Junior Tim Nguyen also seems to be studying effectively, because Rapaport also recommends going over old tests and notes. Rapaport said that it is a contributing factor to being the best student possible.

“Review all your old homework, tests, and quizzes and do online work,” Nguyen said.

It’s great to study hard but it is important to have a good rest. Spanish teacher Christina Bernadac advises to sleep well the week of finals.

“Sleep and eat right, even if you aren’t hungry. You don’t want to become sick,” Bernadac said.

According to the New York Times, cognitive scientists say the brain retains information more effectively if you alternate study spaces.  Memory is colored by location, so switching spaces increases the likeliness of remembering what you learned. The New York Times also reported that testing yourself will help not only test previous knowledge but also enhance it.

Despite the burden, just remember, in a week you will be drinking hot chocolate by the fire and spending time with your most loved family and friends.