10 Tips to Ace Finals this Semester
Final exams are just around the corner, Sailfish, but there is no reason to panic. You’ve been preparing for this moment all semester, and Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) is ready to help you through finals week so you can relax and enjoy your winter break.
We put together a list of 10 things that can help you prepare for exams, here are our tips to ace finals:
1. Find your favorite study spot.
A good study spot varies depending on the person. Some people need absolute silence, while others are more relaxed in an environment with natural sounds or light chatter. Here is a list of some places on campus that may be a good fit for you, depending on the type of location you prefer:
- Lassiter Student Center (lively atmosphere)
- Tables outside Warren Library (lively atmosphere)
- First floor of Warren Library (lively atmosphere)
- Starbucks (lively atmosphere)
- Warren Library Rotunda (quiet atmosphere)
- Library Study Rooms (quiet atmosphere)
- Second floor Warren Library (quiet atmosphere)
- Third floor Warren Library (quiet atmosphere)
2. Create a good study playlist.
Classical music has been shown to stimulate the most brain activity, but everyone’s different. If you’re into listening to music or sounds while you study, consider compiling a list with classical music, white noise, ocean sounds, or rain and thunderstorm sounds.
3. Make a schedule.
Prioritizing can make your study load more manageable. Use a planner to keep track of assignments and exams, create a to-do list and set reminders on your phone for when you want to study.
4. Ensure you get enough rest.
A good night’s sleep is vital to success. To ensure you get the right amount of rest, go to bed at the same time every night and sleep in a cold room. Turn off the TV and stop using your phone or any digital device at least 15 minutes before bed. If it takes longer for your mind to wind down, you should turn things off 30 minutes before bed.
5. Remember to eat.
It’s more important than ever to fuel your brain. Use our many dining options on campus: Fraser Dining Hall, Soul Rebel, Sailfish Market, Chick-fil-A and Starbucks. Choose healthy meal options of protein, fruits, and vegetables. To fuel your brain, you should also keep healthy snacks such as nuts, seeds, berries, yogurt and fruits handy.
6. Use the Writing Center for those term papers.
Writing Central is a valuable resource this time of year. Their coaches can help you with every step of the process, including brainstorming ideas, creating an outline, writing a first draft, revising and proofreading.
7. Visit your professors during office hours.
Office hours are great for any last-minute questions about assignments or exams. Most professors post them on your syllabus, but feel free to email them to make an appointment.
8. Study with classmates
Studying with others can make a difference. To get the most out of collaboration, consider sharing class notes, quizzing each other, creating flashcards together and going over any questions you might have.
9. Take breaks
Studying for hours can be hard work, so reward yourself with a break. Here’s a list of ideas to add some fun and relaxation when you need a break:
● Go for a walk along the intercoastal
● Get a coffee with friends
● Watch your favorite movie
● Go to the beach
10. Pray
As an institution rooted in Judeo-Christian beliefs, PBA encourages everyone to lean into the power of prayer. This year, President Debera Schwinn chose Philippians 4:6 as the verse of the year, which states, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” In The Wave, you can find a way to submit your prayer requests for the chapel staff to pray over.
