The Fall Semester is almost over, which means it is time for final exams. At CAPS, we understand that Finals Week can be a stressful time for many Mason students. As students work to complete assignments, prepare for upcoming exams, and plan for the next semester, it can be easy to lose track of your mental wellness and begin to feel overwhelmed and anxious.
CAPS has created this page of study tips, stress resources, and guided meditations to provide helpful strategies to combat the stress of Finals Week. We wish all students the best of luck as you work to complete the semester. If you would like assistance or support, please reach out to CAPS and Learning Services by calling 703-993-2380.
8 Tips to Get You Through Finals Week
- Create a schedule. Following a schedule helps you stay organized and aware of what needs to be completed. Remember to schedule some time for relaxation!
- Take Breaks. When stressed, taking a break seems like it would be unproductive, but it is actually important. Be sure to take at least a 5-minute break after every hour of studying. You can take a brief walk, change your scenery, get some fresh air, grab a snack or water, or check your phone. After several hours of studying, plan at least a 1-hour break to reset your mind and decompress.
- Test yourself. Testing your knowledge is the best way to know if you are retaining the information you are studying. Try asking yourself a question to see if you can answer it, or try teaching a lesson to someone else. Testing yourself helps you identify what areas will need more studying before the exam.
- Attend a virtual study group. Studying with your classmates is a great way to finish group assignments and prepare for upcoming exams. Assign roles for each member of the group and have goals to complete to stay focused. Review the main parts of past lectures, discuss readings, complete practice problems, go over homework, etc. Have someone from the group email any remaining questions to your professor.
- Prioritize your sleep. Getting adequate sleep each night is crucial to cognitive, physical, and academic performance. When the brain and body are deprived of sleep, it affects decision making, mood regulation, and mental capacity to learn new information. Before an important test, be sure to get at least 7 hours of sleep.
- Reach out to your professor. If you have any questions about the material you are working on or preparing to study for, the best resource to use is your professor.
- Take Care of Yourself. While you are working to meet the demands of the end of the semester, remember to show yourself love, compassion, and care. Fuel your body with nutrients, stay hydrated, and try to connect with friends and loved ones when you can. You have worked so hard to get to this point; be kind to yourself!
- Access Mason Services. CAPS and Learning Services are here for you! Call our office at (703) 993-2380 to make an appointment with a Learning Services’ Peer Academic Coach, attend an Academic Success Workshop, or schedule an Initial Consultation with a CAPS clinician.
Relieving Stress During Finals Looking for ways to relieve stress during finals week? Check out our tips here! Download a copy of our 25 Ways to Relieve Stress During Finals flyer (PDF). Exam Calendar Make sure you know when and where your exams will be. Access the Mason Registrar Academic Calendar here. Resources Guided Meditations