I think it can be unanimously said that no student looks forward to finals week. While the 12:30 PM end time is a benefit of the shortened week for exams, students still have to study, and unfortunately, many times cram in a semester’s worth of work in a meager amount of time. Although Spring Finals are optional this year, many will still take them with the hopes of boosting their grade in the class. Here are some tips and tricks that many upperclassmen have used over their years at Bishop O’Dowd to ace their final exams.

1. Get a good night’s rest. Studies have shown that teenagers need at least 8 hours of sleep to function. While it is unrealistic for many to get this much rest between academics, sports, and family/friend obligations, aiming for closer to 8 hours rather than 4 would be better for oneself mentally, physically, and emotionally. Sleep is crucial to being able to take a final exam at 8:30 AM!
2. Make sure to eat before finals, especially for morning exams. Even though it may be difficult to force breakfast down at 7:00 AM, it is better to eat a piece of fruit or a bite of pancakes rather than go in on an empty stomach. If eating is not feasible that early, drink a tall glass of water as soon as you wake up. It’ll make sure you can function and will give you a boost in the morning.
3. Study a little bit each day. I am definitely not the best person to be cited on this, as I have tended to cram in the past. However, understanding a single subject over a long period of time makes the final test easier and it will come with less stress.
4. Reduce blue light exposure for quality of sleep. Blue light is the light electronics emmit, which reduces and nullifies the benefits of sleep, and makes it even harder to fall asleep in the first place. If blue light exposure is inevitable for you at night, consider getting blue light glasses, which decrease the negative effects of the screen you use.
5. Still spend time with friends, family, or pets. Maybe don’t go out to a movie at 11:30 PM the day before your test, but spending time with those you care about is still important pre-finals. Do not ONLY study. Being with people you love, including friends, family, and pets, will help your mental health overall.

You got this Dragons! It won’t be the easiest week of your life, but by making these shifts in your lifestyle and studying habits, you’ll crush these exams!