Five Study Strategies for Finals Prep
Keep calm and be a Maverick! Good luck on your final tests, papers, and projects!
- published: 2021/04/23
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- study tips
- wellness
- wellness tips
- test prep
1. Make a Plan
Preparing for finals week can feel daunting and overwhelming. Making a plan will help you reduce unnecessary stress, avoid procrastination, and prevent last-minute panic.
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Know when your finals are: check Canvas or the Final Exam Information page
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Know when your projects or papers are due: check Canvas or the course syllabus
- Map out your study schedule with those dates in mind: use Canvas or your Office 365 account
2. Ask Questions and Use Available Resources
Have a question about your final test, project, or paper? Ask your instructor or consult your syllabus. Knowing what to expect and what requirements you need to meet will help you prepare and complete your task.
Looking for more information? Don't overlook the resources available to you online like study guides, class notes, or presentations provided by your instructor on Canvas.
UNO Libraries also provide access to many resources that are especially helpful to online learning students. Some online resources include:
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Over 200 databases, most containing articles published in thousands of research journals
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Over 500,000 electronic books, historical newspapers, and government documents
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Audio and video streaming services
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Materials put on e-reserve for your courses
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Subject-specific research guides and citation guides
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Phone or video research consultations available with subject librarians
3. Find Your Study Spot
Make studying a bit easier by picking a study spot that matches your learning style and noise level preferences. Don't be afraid to switch it up and find a new location if you feel "stuck."
Multiple on campus locations are offering extended hours during prep and finals weeks.
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Milo Bail Student Center will have extended hours over the weekend of May 1 & 2 from 9 A.M. to 5 P.M.; during the week the MBSC is open 7 A.M. to 10 P.M.
4. Eat Right, Stay Well Rested, and Pace Yourself
While you're prepping for finals, don't forget to do the things you would normally do: eat right, stay well rested, and pace yourself. All of these things contribute to better study habits and wellness overall.
Worried you won't fit it all in during prep and finals weeks? Block out time in your calendar between studying, work, and your other responsibilities. You can also set alarms on your phone or watch to remind you to take breaks along the way.
5. Practice Self-Care
In addition to staying well rested and pacing yourself while studying, it's important to practice self-care and make your wellness a priority.
Here are some great ways to take a break during finals prep:
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