With the end of the semester upon us, we are all in extreme anticipation for the three-day weekend of January 21^st to the 23^rd. It is one day off that is well deserved by students.  Before we can enjoy our break, though, we must take our final exams. Many students have different feelings about exams; some are excited because they signal the end of the semester; some are praying they pass; some know they will pass and breeze right through, and some will cram like there’s no tomorrow. Whatever ship you’re in as we sail into exams, there are some sure-fire tips that are sure to help.  

TIP # 1: Always eat a good breakfast the morning of and get a good night sleep the night before. Being rested will allow you to concentrate and eating will start up your system.

TIP # 2: Be on time for the test.  If you’re late, some teachers will lock the door. Always arrive a few minutes early. Remember the saying: “If you’re five minutes early, you’re on time, if you’re on time, you’re late, and if you’re late, you’re toast.”

TIP #3: Do not cram right before the test. Mostly likely, you will forget everything you’ve been cramming and if will put you in an anxious state for the test.

TIP # 4: STUDY! STUDY! STUDY! When you study, make sure you spread it out. Do a little bit each night the week before the exam. Always start with your worst subject even if it’s your last exam. Have study sessions. They can improve your grade, and it’s more fun then studying by yourself. If you do study by yourself, get out of your house. Try going to the library, a friend’s house, or a café. Studying at home with all those distractions is not beneficial. These distractions include cell phones, computers, music, food, drawing, friends, family, and finally the well known and time consuming Facebook.

TIP # 5: After studying for awhile, make sure you give yourself a break. Your brain has been working hard just like you, so give it the break it deserves. Only you know how long you can study before you drown in the material. Work until this point, take a break, and then get right back at it. Just remember that you can do it!

TIP # 6: Bring all needed materials to class. This includes a pencil, an extra pencil, a water bottle, an eraser, a calculator if permitted, and a cheat sheet if you’re allowed. If there is anything else that you are required to bring, pack it the day before so you do not forget.

TIP # 7: Ask questions if you are confused. If there is any part you need explaining on, please ask. Also, find out the format of the test so you can be further prepared. See if the questions are scantron, true and false, matching, or in an essay format. Most teachers will not answer questions the day of the exam so ask before hand. If you would like a tutor, we can find one for you. Ask your teacher right away so they can find someone who can meet with you.

Besides being ready and prepared for your exams, make sure you look at the schedule as we have a special schedule for exams. On the schedule, you’ll find make up periods. If you are unable to make an exam due to an appointment, talk to your teacher right away and it’ll be necessary to take the exam during one of the make up periods. Also on the schedule, you will see a time slot for lunch. The lunch period during exams is different than the normal lunch period. It is an open campus so anyone can leave for lunch. But be careful; if you leave you MUST be back on time. Remember that everyone will be trying to get back and find a parking spot so leave extra time to get into school. The only doors that will be open for sure are the main doors and the pool doors; other doors might not be open, and you could be late waiting for someone to let you inside. I would suggest that freshmen and sophomores bring a lunch, as it will provide fewer hassles.

Please keep all these tips and other information in mind as exam week approaches and enjoy your break by making good choices!