University Star

Bobcats should remember to keep their focus on finals as the fall semester wraps up.

With finals only days away and winter break not too far behind, it can be somewhat difficult to stay on track and find motivation. The end of the semester not only signals exams and projects, but could mean major grade changes if students do not keep up with their studies. As a student, you may find yourself drowning in stress during these next few weeks, but remember—surviving finals is not an impossible task.

The basic essentials for a good study session include organized notes, lecture slides, handouts and other class materials. However, even with preparation, studying may be difficult for some. If that is the case, it is important to quickly develop a reliable, simple study process for final exams.

Effective studying starts with one thing—finding the right time to actually do so. Now is not the time for procrastination, even though it may sound tempting. You might feel like sleeping in a few extra hours and The Square may be calling, but choosing to stay in and review for a difficult final is important.

Make flash cards or bring notes to places such as the bus during a ride to campus and to the kitchen while you cook food. Class content can even be reviewed in between commercials during that Harry Potter marathon you have been dying to watch. It does not matter whether a student devotes small spurts of time or a long stretch of a few hours, studying must be done.

Something many students might overlook is the importance of getting comfortable while studying. Do not set up a laptop and books somewhere cramped or crowded. Wear comfortable clothing and relax when getting ready to study. Your environment can help put the mind at ease and lessen the stress studying may cause. Feeling comfortable can really get those learning vibes going while getting through some of the hardest times of a college career, otherwise known as hitting the books for finals.

One of the biggest nuisances to take away from a solid study session is a bad distraction. Students can turn off cell phones, avoid social media websites and study in silent and calm places to help avoid this issue. Set goals for the study session and reward yourself when they are met.

For students with extremely short attention spans, a small reward such as a quick snack break may be needed after every paragraph read or problem solved. Those with slightly longer study tolerances might take a trip to the park for some fresh air and go on a walk to celebrate their success. When taking study breaks, avoid getting on Facebook or Twitter. Social media websites may easily distract students from finishing up much-needed study sessions.

Do not fret, Bobcats. The time has almost come for that glorious month off from school with nothing but stress-free living. However, the time for finals is here now, so make sure to finish strong.

—Alex Pernice is a mass communication sophomore.