Finals week can be the most stressful time of the year for all students, so knowing how to properly prepare is the key to avoiding stress and doing your absolute best on every single one of your exams. Of course, it would be nice for test stress to be relieved by massages and petting puppies, but unfortunately, we know that is unrealistic. Having a uniform way to study is more beneficial in the end, so here are some proven methods that will have you focused and better prepared for final exams.

1. Say NO to cramming: Study in intervals! According to The State University of New York, studying in 20-50 minute increments and giving yourself 5-10 minutes in between is more beneficial than cramming. Distributing learning over time typically benefits long-term retention more than a short period.
2. Say YES to cardio: Science says that just 20 minutes of cardio can improve your memory. Whether you’re dancing, jogging or walking, exercise will increase your energy level and reduce the effects of stress.
3. Eat superfoods/antioxidants: Everybody knows you should eat breakfast the day of a big test. Research suggests that high-carb, high-fiber, slow-digesting foods like oatmeal are best. However, what you eat a week in advance matters, too. When 16 college students were tested on attention and thinking speed, then fed a five-day, high-fat, low-carb diet heavy on meat, eggs, cheese and cream and tested again, their performance declined. The students who ate a balanced diet that included fruit and vegetables, however, held steady, says Cameron Holloway, a senior clinical researcher at the University of Oxford. Eating a healthy snack is very beneficial and can make a significant difference (almonds, fruit, and yogurt are good choices).

Studying strategies vary from person to person, and knowing which way helps you the most is very beneficial. If you are unaware of what methods might help you, here are several to try:

1. Create your own study guide.
2. Ask questions. The teacher is there to assist you! Ask away!
3. Attend review sessions if your teacher offers them!
4. Start early on studying, and do not wait until the day before! You’ll almost always perform better in doing so!
5. Organize a group study session. Discussing the material with others helps you better understand it.
6. Take breaks. You won’t be able to memorize or comprehend all the material at once. Balance is key.
7. Stay well-rested. There’s a lot to be said about a good night’s sleep. Make sure you’re well-rested so that you can be fully focused during your exams.
8. Create a study schedule – and follow it. According to FastWeb, splitting the material into chunks you can actually achieve can be very beneficial. That way, you can keep track of what you’ve accomplished instead of looking at the big picture and getting overwhelmed.
9. Color code it. Create a system that allows you to color code material that’s going to be on the exam by what’s most important, less important, etc. This will help you focus on the most pertinent information and prioritize the material.

Once you know how to study, it really does make life a lot easier. Commit to your plan, try new study techniques, and good final exam grades will come your way. Stay positive, and always remember, one test does not define your entire life!