By Ella Cobb

Finals are right around the corner, and we are all feeling the pressure. Whether you are just trying to survive another semester or wrapping up your last assignments before graduation, here are some real-life productivity tips that actually work. 

Stay organized and plan 

Find a system that helps you keep track of your assignments and busy schedule. This can be a digital calendar or a physical planner. Personally, I love a color-coded spreadsheet. Try reviewing your upcoming schedule over the weekend to find the best times to tackle each item on your to-do list. 

Time management

As we progress through different courses and the other commitments in our lives, we start to learn how long it takes us to do certain tasks. When you plan out your days and schedules, make sure you leave enough time available to get your coursework done before it’s due. 

Learn how you study best

There are multiple different learning and study styles. Some work well for others and some don’t. Do you retain more when you write hand-written notes or listen to lectures? Once you find what works, stick with it. 

Put away distractions

At this point, I think we all know we are addicted to our phones. If you get trapped in the social media loop, it might be time to set screen time limits through the settings on your phone. You might even need to consider deleting the most distracting apps off your phone for a while. I have definitely deleted TikTok during a few finals’ weeks. 

Find a quiet place to study

There are times when we need to be in a quiet place to study or get assignments done. There are study spots in many buildings on campus. You can rent private study rooms in the library. You can also study in one of the study pods in the Business and Aerospace Computer Lab that are soundproof. There are so many other places too. 

Don’t wait until the last minute

Try not to add to your stress if you can avoid it. I have procrastinated so many times, and it always stresses me out more. Try to get your assignments done in enough time that you aren’t scrambling to finish it fast.

Learn how to prioritize what is the most important

What are your personal goals? What is more important to you right now? For some, it’s grades, friendships, landing an internship, work, etc. We are all striving to complete a goal. It can be hard to find balance. Once you establish your goals, you can create a better system to accomplish it.

Understand your limits

We often try to do it all and that is just not possible. It is okay to say no. We don’t have to say yes to everything. Be kind to yourself. 

Ask for help

Let’s normalize asking for help. Ask a friend, professor, or someone else for help when you need it. It’s okay. We aren’t always going to know everything. On campus, we have tutoring, the University Writing Center, the Career Development Center, Counseling Services, and more resources for students. 

Take care of yourself

Don’t forget to care for yourself. Try not to live on just coffee and energy drinks. Make sure you add some food and water in there. Take breaks. It’s not good for us to stare at screens for hours. Take a walk. Also, make sure you are sleeping enough. It is hard to perform well if we aren’t sleeping much. 

Stay motivated

Remember why you are doing this and what you are working towards. You are almost done with the semester. You can do this.

Reward yourself

Rewarding myself is one of my favorite study techniques. Finish a big project? Grab a treat or do something fun. Celebrate big and small wins. Sometimes we just need something to look forward to get to the finish line.