The pained finale: Finals and how to prepare for them

The end of the semester can not come soon enough, but before we check out in anticipation, we have final exams.

Some are comprehensive, some only cover material from the last lecture(s) and the worst, some are a final paper or presentation. No matter what you have to do to finish your class, here are some tips to help you prepare for finals.

The original study tool — a study guide. Whether your professor gives one out or you’re on your own, you should probably know what’s on your final. Either fill out and study with the guide provided, or make one. Pull similar questions, sample problems and practice them to give yourself the same final exam feel.

The tedious tool: Notecards. Repetition of material can help you understand and memorize the content. Also, you can pull them out anywhere and quiz yourself with a friend. Don’t get caught in the habit of reviewing them in order, make sure to shuffle them so you aren’t as prepared to answer.

Teach someone else. I know this can be extra, but if you can teach the material to someone else or say it out loud, you will have a better understanding.

Rewrite your notes: If you have already written notes for a class, going back through them and rewriting them can help you better organize your thoughts and retain the material better.

Study groups: Get together with your classmates, wear a mask and study together. They may have a better understanding of the material and could help!