AP Exams and finals weeks can be a stressful time for anyone. Knowing how to properly prepare can eliminate most of this stress and help out. Here are nine ways to ace those finals:
Study – Don’t wait until two blocks beforehand to start studying. Cramming is one of the worst things to do. Information doesn’t stick well that way. Make a schedule and get organized. Make sure you are giving yourself enough time to study instead of doing other things.
Make flashcards – Quiz yourself and your friends. Make sure you know the information; you’ll be glad you did.
Get a study group – As long as you stay on topic, your friends can be a lot of help. Sometimes your peers can help explain something better than your teachers can.
Attend tutorials – If you don’t understand something go see a teacher in class or after school and ask for help. It’s okay, that’s what they are there for.
Go to sleep on time – No staying up until 2 a.m. watching Netflix. Go to bed early. Sleep will help you to stay focused during the exams.
Eat breakfast – It’s one of the most important meals of the day. It’ll kick start the body’s metabolism and get the brain going. Don’t skip out on breakfast on the day of your finals.
Don’t rush – Take your time while studying and testing. AP exams are a timed test, but don’t rush through the questions. Be sure to read each one carefully and maintain a good pace. Don’t worry about being the first to finish.
Minimize distractions – Silence your phone and put away the iPad. Although the proctors take up all technological devices before the AP exam, teachers are not forced to do this during finals. Playing Tap the White Tile or taking selfies for Instagram isn’t going to help you pass. Seriously. Put it up.
Stay calm – Relax and remember to breathe. Don’t freak yourself out. Follow these tips and you’ll do great.