It’s that time of the year again. Holiday breaks are near, but finals are even closer. One issue most students struggle with is figuring out an effective study method to prepare for their final exams. There’s no need to pull your hair out in overnight cram sessions if you make a study plan, and most importantly, stick to it.

First, gather all your notes from the beginning of the semester until now. Organize them chronologically and separate them for each class. By doing this, you avoid scrambling through all your notes the night before the test looking for notes from chapter 4 that you covered at the beginning of the semester. The earlier you start organizing your notes, the more time you’ll have for actual studying.

Next, if you are a flashcard user, this step is for you! Decide which classes will work with flashcards to aid studying. If your review has a lot of vocabulary words, I would recommend, at least, making a few flash cards for the ones you don’t know well. Again, the earlier you begin making your flashcards, the more it will help you as finals get closer.

Another useful tool is using old tests as study guides. Many professors don’t give tests back but if yours does, use it to your advantage by studying them again. If your professors do not give tests back, then use old test reviews to study thoroughly.

Finally, don’t try cramming all the information in at the last minute. Space out your study schedule, so you don’t get overwhelmed. If you work better in a group, create a study group and meet up to have a study session. Try to view it as an accomplishment rather than a hassle.

Grab a holiday-flavored drink, put on your fuzzy socks, and have fun studying!