It’s hard to believe but the end of the year is almost here. While excitement runs high for Christmas break, there is one week that students have to get through which is dreaded by most every high school student: finals week.

Since many students have neither taken finals before or are taking finals in person again since the beginning of COVID, I thought I could give some of my personal tips for finals week as well as tips from Regina Dominican faculty and students to make your finals week a success.

Tip #1 – Watch for Clues
Throughout my four years of high school, I have noticed that many teachers have a methodology for preparing test questions and almost always stick to these methodologies. Most test questions are the same as questions you would have received on previous tests. Look through all of your old tests and quizzes and make note of what types of questions are asked. Always pay attention to what teachers are saying during your class review session. Teachers will always go over the concepts that will sure to be on the test during these sessions.

Tip #2 – Use A Note Card
For any class where your teacher offers the use of a note card make sure to take advantage of this. Note cards are very beneficial and although they can sometimes be tedious to make, I think that they are one of the best study methods. Writing down information will help you retain more then just quickly glancing through notes. After making a note card, I always find myself not using it as much as I thought I would during the exam because I find myself remembering what I had written down.

Tip #3 – Complete Study Guides
Teacher provided study guides are another helpful guide for your studying. Most teachers will not stray from topics outside of these guides. Fill out all of your study guides early so you can ask your teachers for help with any question you get stuck on. Many teachers will create the exam just like the study guide so putting information from the study guide onto your note card is very helpful.

Tip #4 – Get Enough Sleep
Pulling an all nighter for the sake of more study hours is never a good idea. You do not want to show up to your test tired since this will hurt you cognitively. Concentration, reaction time, and decision making will be weakened if you do not get enough sleep the night before.

Regina Dominican students and faculty members also have finals tips to keep in mind. For those who like a change of scenery or a quiet place to study, senior Kirka Kallioras said “studying at a library or a coffee shop” are great places to focus and stay on track.

When asked about her top tips for finals week senior Elizabeth Lannon said “stick to study guides, get enough sleep, and make sure to eat breakfast in the morning.”

Terese Sullivan, a guidance counselor at Regina Dominican, said “do not procrastinate” when aksed about finals tips. Sullivan said “give yourself enough to time to study and organize your time so that you have plenty of time to study for the exams that will be more demanding.”

Morgan O’ Leary, an English teacher at Regina Dominican, said “make sure to take some time every day to take a break from studying and destress.”

All of the tips listed above are great ways to ace your finals this year. Even following just a few of these tips will be sure to make your finals week less stressful.