There is no denying that the weeks leading up to finals are stressful for students of all grade levels. With the semester coming to an end, everything learned the past four months is compiled into one major test, your midterm.

For students who may struggle with their finals or freshmen who are new to the concept entirely, here are some helpful tips and tricks from various groups around St. Dominic!

Tips from Administrators

The administrators here at St. Dominic are sure to help you as they have been doing this for many years.

“Rank your classes from hardest to easiest and then spend more time preparing for the classes that have challenged you. Organize your notes/assessments in order that you took them in class. Review assessments, especially where you struggled the most. Review any quizlets you may have created throughout the semester. Read and review often! Visualize material by highlighting and underlining your notes to help you stay an active learner. Study with classmates! Quiz each other! Learn by teaching others. Complete the courses study guides and concentrate on the areas you struggle the most and seek assistance. Every strong 30 minutes [of studying] take a 10 minute break, and then get back to studying. Attend Reading Day to get your most recent questions answered and get last minute tips from your teachers. Get a good night’s sleep, eat breakfast and have a healthy snack with you to eat between exams,” principal Mrs. Stacey Stewart said.

Tips from Teachers

Your teachers are probably one of the most helpful resources when it comes to uncertainty about studying methods for exams. Remember to listen to the helpful tips they say for the final, whether that be theirs or finals in general!

“Start studying early. Taking a little time each day to review material or complete study guides is easier and more beneficial than staying up after and cramming before an exam. That being said, don’t forget to relax and find some quiet time to separate yourself from the stresses of exams. If you are a person with lots of printed materials, use a folder that is designated for everything related to exams. If all of your notes are on your iPad, make sure you have Notability separated by subject.” Commented Mrs. Goins, a literature teacher for freshman-seniors.

Tips from Seniors

St. Dominic seniors are seasoned professionals at taking exams. Every senior has found helpful tips for taking finals and are always happy to share their experiences with underclassmen.

“My biggest tip for finals is to make a schedule. Prioritize what teachers you need to see on reading day and utilize that day to get help in the classes that you need the most help with.” senior Kennedy Jones said.

Tips from Alumni

Still not convinced? Those who have already graduated and moved on from St. Dominic would be happy to share their tips on how to survive your week of finals.

“As someone who has graduated, I would highly recommend you start studying as soon as possible. Procrastination will hurt you a lot during finals week. I also find that going to reading day was super helpful. Even if you don’t have any questions, someone else will and it might help you out. Lastly, I find that studying with a group of people helped me a lot. Studying in a group helps you look at things from a new perspective and eliminate procrastination which will ultimately help you on your exams!” 2021 graduate Grace Catlett said.

Whether you are stressed or not about finals, these tips and tricks will be sure to help you out with your studying over the next couple of days. Remember to relax, and know that you got this!