‘Twas the week before finals and all through the dorms….

One week of classes and then finals’ week.  What should you do to have a successful end of the semester?

Check your finals schedule.  At most institutions it is different than the weekly class schedule.  (While you are at it, double check the location.)  Keep in mind that many professors will not remind you, they expect that you will find this information yourself.

Know the following information for each exam:

Information to be covered

Type of exam – essay, multiple choice, short answer, combination

What your estimated grade is going into the exam?  If you are on the border between two grades, that will motivate you to put extra effort into that course.

Plan your study schedule.  Start to prepare NOW.  This is not the weekend to relax – this weekend is important to be sure that you are ready for each exam.

Study for each exam several days in advance.  Remember that learning needs to be spread out and given time to consolidate in your long-term memory.   This means that you will be studying several subjects in one day, but that is fine. 

As you study in depth, make review charts for each subject with the important information and sub-points included.   As you go along, these then will become your major study material with the option of going back into the book or notes to review the minor details.

The last subject you should study each night is the first exam you have the next day. 

Be sure to take the supplies you need to the exam – several pens, pencils, book or notes if the exam is open book.

There will be a policy at your school about what to do if you have too many exams in one day.  At my university students don’t have to take more than 3 in one day.  There are procedures in place identifying which professor must make accommodations.

Work hard and good luck!!  You can do it!!