It’s that time of year again — finals season. The tension is rising, stress is overwhelming and the air thickens with anxiety. As the semester ends, pressure peaks — grades are on the line and expectations weigh heavily. But despite the stress, students find ways to power through. What helps them succeed?
Preparation for finals and semi-finals varies widely. Most students kick off their finals preparation by revisiting notes, re-watching lectures and diving into study guides. Some use flashcards, while others create tight revision schedules. But for me, the most effective study methods are Pomodoro and Feynman.
The 2024-2025 school year has brought a lot of pressure since it was shortened to compensate for the disruptions of previous years. The pace of this school year is too fast, so many students have difficulty managing their time as projects, assessments and exams are more likely to be clustered.
Effective time management is crucial. Breaking down large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks can make the workload feel less daunting. Prioritizing assignments and setting realistic goals are also essential.
To reduce stress from workloads, some suggest sleeping early and exercising. Unfortunately, many find this difficult due to heavy school and household responsibilities.
In school, grades are undeniably important, reflecting academic achievement and influencing future opportunities. However, it is very important for students to cultivate a healthy perspective. Grades should be seen as a growth process and an actual learning experience, not a competition.