The end of semester always seems to be a busy, hectic and chaotic time. Everything feels like it’s due at once, and we still need to prepare for exams. Here are our top five tips for surviving this time of the semester.

1. Invest in a planner

Having a planner will help minimise the stress and feel more organised. It doesn’t matter what you use, whether it’s Google Calendars, a physical diary or even just a sheet of paper, organising all your tasks into a timeline will help make everything feel more manageable.

2. Set smaller tasks

Instead of noting in your planner everything about a certain unit that you need to learn by a certain date, break down your goals. For example, ‘Summarise topics 1-5 by Thursday’, and then ‘Finalise study notes by Monday’. Breaking tasks down helps will help you study smarter, not harder.

3. Study with a friend

Having a peer or group of classmates who you can study with helps you to manage your study load. Firstly, it reminds you that you are not alone. Secondly, it means that you can work together with your peers to learn concepts that may be evading you. We all have different strengths, so when working in a group, your strengths may help your classmates and their strengths may help you. Find a time that works for everyone and connect online.

Peer Academic Coaches are also available to help you through tricky units or subjects you’re struggling to understand.

4. Study in a way that works for you

We all have different ways of learning and retaining information. For some people, colour coding or creative arts helps them study and beat exam stress. For others, certain scents may help trigger their memory. Get familiar with what type of learner you are and what study techniques work for you. This will help you to format your notes and study in the most effective way that works for you.

5. Remember to rest

While it may be tempting to just keep studying, taking small breaks is very important. Going for a walk or taking a nap is a good way to reset your brain before the next study session or exam. The Pomodoro Method is also a great tool to structure these breaks.