How to Succeed During Finals Week

Finals week at NDSU is approaching fast. With test dates set to occur from May 11-15, a college student’s motivation may plummet, while their cortisol is bound to rise. This is not to mention the many final projects, posters and presentations that are usually due right before the dreaded final week.

The end of the semester can mean that some handle multiple deadlines, working a job and regular coursework, on top of big projects, plus whatever life throws at them. While the schedule can become hectic, there is no reason to fret. The most important thing a successful student can do is prepare, and now is the time to start. Compiled here is a list of tips on how to survive finals week:

Start Now

Beginning your study journey two to three weeks before the test date will give you the proper time to prepare. If you are planning to ace that final, multiple review sessions will be the best way to do that. While a cramming session the night before might feel like dedication, it usually takes away from sleep and adds on to stress. This hinders overall performance.

Taking two to three weeks to prepare means multiple study sessions and learning incrementally allows your brain to digest the information and retain it better. Repetition is key!

Starting now also means organizing your workload before it organizes you. Map out your exams, project deadlines and major assignments on a calendar. From there, break each subject into smaller, manageable sections. Instead of writing “study for biology,” outline specific goals such as reviewing chapters, completing practice problems, or memorizing key terms. This makes studying feel less overwhelming and more achievable.

Prioritization is equally important. Not all finals carry the same weight, and not all subjects require the same level of effort. Identify which exams will demand the most time and begin there. Tackling the most challenging material early allows more time for repetition and reduces last-minute stress.

Find a Study Method For You

Not every student learns the same way, and finals week is not the time to force a method that does not work. Some people retain information best through active recall, meaning they test themselves repeatedly without looking at notes. Others benefit from rewriting notes, teaching the material to a friend or using visual aids like diagrams, color coding or pictures.

Being intentional is key for studying. Passively rereading slides might feel productive, but it often leads to false confidence. Instead, you need to challenge yourself. Practicing flashcards, problems and mock exams are more effective because they simulate the conditions of the actual test.

Environment also matters. Some people work better in silence, while others need background noise. Study rooms in the library, coffee shops, a seat at the Memorial Union or a quiet dorm space can all serve different needs. The point is not where you study, but whether you can sustain focus there.

If you have trouble getting distracted by being in your apartment or dorm, then moving to a new location could be very helpful. I find that I start to think of all the chores I need to do while in my own home, which can make studying that much harder. Moving to the library or having someone keep me accountable ensures that I stay on task.

Another distraction that needs to be considered: your phone. Whether it is doomscrolling through TikTok or an addiction to Facebook Marketplace, the phone is full of dopamine-inducing applications. To combat this tantalizing technology, download a focus app, have a friend keep you accountable or just put the phone in another room.

Stay Healthy

The first sacrifice for finals is usually health, which is one of the most damaging mistakes. Sleep, nutrition, hydration and movement are foundational to overall performance. Taking care of your body means taking care of your mental well-being as well.

Sleep deprivation impairs memory consolidation, which is the very process students rely on when preparing for exams. Pulling an all-nighter may seem like a solution, but it often results in lower retention and decreased focus during the exam itself. A consistent sleep schedule, even if not perfect, is far more beneficial than last-minute cramming at 3 a.m.

Nutrition plays a similar role. Energy drinks and fast food may seem convenient, but they often lead to crashes that disrupt productivity. Balanced meals with protein, complex carbohydrates and hydration provide sustained energy. Even something as simple as keeping a water bottle nearby can improve focus.

Physical activity should not be overlooked either. A short walk, a quick workout or even stretching between study sessions can reduce stress and improve mental clarity. The goal is not to train for a marathon, but to keep your body functioning so your mind can perform.

Mental health deserves equal attention. Stress is inevitable during finals week, but unmanaged stress can quickly become overwhelming. Taking short breaks, connecting with friends or stepping outside for fresh air can reset your focus. Productivity does not come from constant pressure; it comes from balance.

The 48 Hours Before

The final one to two days before an exam should shift from learning new material to reinforcing what you already know. At this point, students should focus on reviewing key concepts, practicing problems and identifying weak areas.

This is also the time to figure out the logistics. Know where and when your exam is happening. Gather necessary materials like pens, calculators or study sheets. If this part is overlooked, it can quickly become a huge stressor.

Sleep during this period is super important. A well-rested brain performs significantly better than an exhausted one. Even if stress or anxiety make it difficult to relax, establishing a wind-down routine can signal to your body that it is time to rest. Additionally, being well hydrated can keep you feeling good.

To AI or Not to AI?

Artificial intelligence is now a common tool for professionals and college students alike. It plays a role during finals week as a study aid. AI can summarize notes, generate practice questions or explain difficult concepts in a different way.

However, there is a distinct line between assistance and dependency. Relying on AI to complete assignments or provide answers without understanding the material undermines the entire purpose of education. Even more importantly, it leaves students unprepared for exams that require independent knowledge.

The most effective approach is to treat AI as a support, not a crutch. If it helps clarify a concept, it can be beneficial. If it replaces the learning altogether, it is a liability.

Final Thoughts

Finals week is stressful, but it is manageable with the right approach. Preparation and consistency are defining factors of success. Students who start early, use effective study methods, maintain their health and take advantage of available resources position themselves for stronger outcomes.