Finals prep tips and tricks:

Guidelines to ensure the best grade:

By: JACOB POLITTE STAFF WRITER:

Study, Study, Study: This first one is the biggest and most obvious tactic. It’s important to stay sharp in your studies, even if you already have a high grade in the class. Make sure to review notes, take a peek at old homework assignments, and even consult the class textbook if necessary (depending on how your professor teaches the course). But also make sure to focus on the topics you haven’t mastered yet before you review the stuff you have; you don’t want to run of time before you can fully understand the material.

Be Careful Who You Study With, And Where You Study At: Sometimes, studying with a friend is not the best option, even if they’re honestly trying to help. I often get distracted from my schoolwork when I’m around my friends. Put the exam first; there is always time to socialize later. Also, pick the right location to study at. Find a quiet, calm place to help you increase your focus on your studies; I’ve tried studying in busy environments and it just doesn’t work most of the time.

Make Flashcards: In many of my previous classes, I’ve used this studying tactic to great success. This could be helpful in any course, but for me, it always worked best with reviewing terms in my mathematics courses.

Eat Well and Stay Hydrated: This is not just an excuse to grab a bite to eat before the exam; eating and drinking beforehand can help you stay focused over the course of the exam period. I wouldn’t necessarily drink soda, but that’s just a personal preference.

Don’t Overthink: Multiple choice exams can be tricky, especially because in a lot of cases, your professor is looking for one specific answer. While it’s not always the case, the simplest answer is often the right one. If you have a gut feeling about a particular answer, trust your gut!