As December comes to a close, first-semester final exams are nearly upon us.  With schedules filled to the brim, the omnipresence of final exams may add another layer of tension to the already high strung high school students.  With a few words of encouragement and guidance, students and teachers alike can be reminded that they will make it through the final exams process unscathed and stronger on the other side.

1. Plan accordingly.

With a little over a week before finals start, now is the time to create a study schedule.  An organized and efficiently structured study program will aid not only in your preparation for exams but can also help with your overall confidence.  Keep in mind which days your finals are.  If your AP Physics I test is on that Thursday, and you happen to have an 89% in the class, make the studying for that class your primary objective.  Borderline grades can be unsettling going into finals, but making those classes the top of your agenda can ensure success.  It can also be helpful to use a grade calculator to see what grade you need in the final to get your desired overall grade.  Using such calculators can be a motivating force in your studying endeavors.

2. Trust your hard work!

Students at WTHS value their academic work.  Since August, the school has been plugging along nearly nonstop.  Final exams are yet another assessment of your learning over the course of the first semester.  While they may have more content than a typical test or quiz, the information on the final should be structured around the information from the past 5 months. All of the completed assignments notes taken, and study sessions will add up in preparation for the culmination of the year.  Have confidence in your work and knowledge.

3. Prioritize sleep.

Picture this: it’s the day before Wednesday, December 20th.  The very first day of finals is nearly upon us.  Should you be unable to study for the final examinations prior, be sure to listen to your body clock.  Pulling an all-nighter may seem like a bright idea in your momentary struggle; however, sleep plays a vital role in the functioning of your brain. Lack of sleep can play a detrimental role in your school performance.  On days important as finals, be sure to keep the significance of a good night’s rest in mind.  Study as much as you can, but limit your studying to a reasonable hour in the night when you can still function the next morning.

4. Get a good breakfast.

On the theme of biopsychosocial influences on final exams week, fueling your body with a substantial meal prior to taking said tests is of utmost importance.  A hearty and filling breakfast can power you through the 2 or 3 daily exams.  If you find yourself getting peckish early in the morning, it may also be a good idea to bring a snack.  

5. Reach out to others if you are struggling.

December is a stressful month when only considering the holidays; trying to balance being around family members you haven’t seen in months, buying the perfect present for everyone on your list, and actually enjoying the time off can be a daunting task.  Adding to the anxieties of final exams can threaten to add yet another burden.  When you find yourself growing worried or pressured, talking to those around you can be a tremendous load off.  Any person you choose to talk to about these troubles is likely to have gone through very similar circumstances and will be able to empathize with your plight.  Knowing you are not alone in these trying times can be a great source of relief and can motivate you through exams.

Keep up the great work in the wake of final exams, and best of luck to all students!  Enjoy your time off over winter break.