Gear Up for College Finals with 5 Stress Reducing Study Tips -

It’s that time again: final exams. Don’t panic. Instead, make a plan and don’t wait for the last minute to cram for exams!

We all know that exams can be game changers when it comes to your final grade (EEK!). Now is the time to embrace these scientifically proven tips to help you up your game. Get started now and you’ll be on your way to nirvana come exam time (just a SLIGHT exaggeration).

1. Don’t Cram–Plan

Cramming causes anxiety and that lowers your ability to retain information. Making a plan helps you avoid procrastination and studying the wrong things. It increases your efficiency, effectiveness and long-term retention.

2. Use a Timer

Set up structured study time and avoid distractions. Don’t answer your phone or check texts and social media until the timer goes off.

example of Focus Keeper app — Check out the Pomodoro Technique to help you keep on track.

I swear by the Pomodoro Technique where I live and die by the timer. The Pomodoro Technique has you focus on a task for 25 minutes and then take a short break. I can study the most boring subject for that long!

There are tons of apps but my favorite is Focus Keeper. There is also a laptop version which helps me keep on task instead of. . . oh, say . . . spending hours on Pinterest.

3. Cardio Improves Memory

Just 20 minutes of cardio can improve your memory! It also increases your energy level and reduces stress. Bonus points for getting in some fresh air and a change of scenery.

woman in exercise gear fixing ponytail before working out — Get moving to clear your mind, then back to studying for college exams.

4. Fuel Your Body

Sixteen college students were tested on attention and thinking speed, then fed a five-day high-fat, high-protein, low-carb diet rich in meat, eggs, cheese and cream. When retested, their performance declined.

Some students ate a balanced diet that included fruit and vegetables, and their attention and thinking prowess remained steady.

woman eating from white bowl — A healthy diet can improve your brain power so you can be your best for college final exams.

Try eating a healthy snack like almonds, fruit, yogurt or cheese to help fuel your brain.

Don’t forget to eat breakfast before your final exam.

5. A Change of Study Scenery Helps Your Focus

Don’t spend all night in the library. Shake things up. Simply alternating your study spaces improves retention.

Psychologists found that when college students studied vocabulary words in two different rooms (including one without windows and cluttered, and the other with a view outside), they performed better than students who didn’t change their scenery.

Bottom line: Get Organized

Make a plan and follow it to reduce stress and improve fact retention. Be sure to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating healthy, exercising, getting rest and enjoying a change of scenery to rack up the exam grades you need to boost your GPA.