As many of us know, the most dreaded week of the semester is quickly approaching us–and this year it is very different. While normally many of us are camped out in the library, meeting with teachers, and engaging in study groups with our peers, this finals week faces the scary new normals due to virtual classes, being at home in an environment filled with distractions, and a feeling of uneasiness looming over us, leaving us all unmotivated to get into school work. We all feel it, we are all in this together, and we will all do our best. Check out these 5 tips to stay calm and motivated during finals week!

Pick a designated spot to do your studying 

Studying at home is a difficult change we all face. While we are normally use to libraries, habitual study spots on campus, peace and quiet, and no distractions, studying at home can be a huge adjustment due to all the chaos going on at home. By picking a place in your house to study, you can leave your materials there, set up shop, and get into productive grove.

Set up zoom calls with classmates to start study groups

Personally, I know how much I depend on study groups during finals week to catch onto any information I missed and especially for group work. Reach out to your classmates or group members and set up zoom group calls to talk everything thru, find study partners, and keep yourself motivated on a schedule!

*Pro tip: if your class no longer meets during “class time”, use that time to keep yourself on schedule and as a time your peers can also meet!

Keep yourself accountable by making lists 

With it being very hard to focus on school or find the motivation to set aside time to do school work, it is very helpful to make a list of all the tasks you need to accomplish for the day or week so you can keep track of your progress and make sure you don’t forget anything on your list! This list can also work as a schedule for your upcoming days and create a sense of accomplishment once each thing is taken off your list.

Fit a daily walk or quick workout into your schedule to relax your mind 

During the stress of finals we all need to remember to focus on our mental and physical health. By taking a little bit of time every day to get outside for a walk or run will give you fresh air, time to clear your head, and some time to get your mind off of your school work. You can also fit in work outs as little breaks to relax your mind and release any tension or stress your body is feeling. These breaks are so helpful to step away from work and use your body as a way to release any pent up emotions!

Take breaks!!

And finally, take breaks! Whether your break is a work out, walk, do art projects, meditate, cook, time to watch tv or movies, laying out by the pool, calling friends and family, or even just a much needed glass of wine, give yourself several breaks a day to ensure your mind does not go into overdrive and you have time to decompress from all of the work and studying you have done throughout the day.

These 5 tips will help you do your best this finals week! We are all in this together and we are all trying to manage finals at home in new environments. Do not forget to take breaks, take deep breaths, and know that you are doing the very best you can.