Final exams are coming up. And let's be honest, studying for your final exams isn't as easy as it sounds. You know you need to study. Of course you do. But how exactly? Where do you even start? How do you know what’s important? And why does it feel like everyone else has it under control—except you? Ugh.
Maybe you’ve made a study plan a dozen times, but by day two, it’s already fallen apart. Or maybe you’re staring at that stack of books on your desk thinking, “Forget it. This just isn’t going to work.” Good news: you’re not the only one. And yes, you can do something about it.
Studying can feel overwhelming. Period. That’s why we’re breaking it down for you, step by step. What to do when you’re stuck, and how to get yourself and your focus back on track during exam preparation.
Stop telling yourself you “still have time”
Because honestly, you don't. Sounds a bit harsh, but it’s time to ditch the self-deception. And be honest with yourself. The sooner you start studying, the more peace of mind you'll have later. Also, don’t wait for the perfect moment either. It probably doesn’t exist.
Start small. One subject, one hour. Then again tomorrow. Read one paragraph and do some exercises. Once you start, it'll get easier and easier. Promise.
Clear your head (and your desk)
A cluttered mind often starts with a cluttered space. Bin those seven empty Red Bull cans. Put your phone on airplane mode. Write down everything you still need to do. And we mean EVERYTHING. Not to panic, but to create order.
If you don't know where to start, ask yourself the following questions:
- What do I already understand pretty well?
- What do I keep getting wrong?
- Which subject(s) am I avoiding (oops), and why?
- What could give me some clarity right now?
Then highlight what really matters. Which exams are coming up first? Where are you falling behind? You will see that this overview alone will give you already some peace and quiet.
And hey, a tidy desk not only makes for a quiet(er) workplace. It actually clears your mind, too. Your surroundings often say it all. Junk on your desk? Chances are your head is chaos, too.
Be honest. How well can you really focus if your books, summaries, empty cans and your phone are lying around everywhere?
Make studying a habit
Don't wait for the perfect moment, remember? Same goes for your motivation and structure. Those only come after you have started. Not before.
You don’t need some fancy colour-coded Excel schedule that you’ll ditch after three days. What you need is rhythm. Block out 3 to 4 study sessions per day (max two hours each), and give each day a clear start and end time. This will give you peace of mind and give you something to hold on to. Once you know where you stand each day, it'll suddenly feel a lot less overwhelming.
And while we're at it, don't forget breaks. Not a luxury, but a serious necessity. Because studying non-stop may seem like the solution, but your brain gets exhausted. Without rest, you’ll forget everything you just worked so hard on.
So, plan free moments. Grab a drink. Go for a walk. And turn off your phone.
Break it down
Some textbooks are so thick you could use them as dumbbells. No wonder you don’t know where to start. The good news? You don’t have to tackle it all at once. Break it down.
Divide the material into small chunks. Try working in 25-minute blocks (indeed, the Pomodoro Technique), with short breaks in between. That way, your focus stays sharp, that thick pill is a lot less intimidating, and you still get a small win every time.
Need more exam tips? We've got you covered.
Ask for help. Seriously. Do it.
Feel like you’re hitting a wall? Sometimes you’re so stuck that the only thing that works is a fresh perspective. That’s totally fine. Take a step back. Think about what you can solve yourself, and where you need support.
A classmate might get you back on track. Ask your teacher a few specific questions. Or maybe you need more support? Someone who can look at your situation with you and help you figure out what works.
You don't have to do it alone. Asking for help? That’s not weak. That’s smart.
Don't let it get to you
No structure? No plan? Stressed out? That's not you. That's your brain saying, “Oh, stop! That's not how it works!" Fortunately, studying for your final exams doesn't have to be complete chaos. Start with structure, rhythm and realistic goals, and you’re already halfway there.
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