Student going over math problems on a white board.

Getting Ready for Finals

Thursday, April 10, 2025

As finals approach, many OSU students are feeling the pressure of a busy semester coming to a close. With the stress of exams, projects and assignments, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry, you’ve got this!

By staying organized, taking care of your health and keeping the right mindset, you can tackle finals and come out on top. Here are some tips to help you prepare for finals and stay safe and balanced along the way.

A girl holding books saying "Time to Study!"

Adopt Good Study Habits

The key to successful studying isn’t cramming all night. Use effective strategies that help you retain information and avoid burnout. Here are some study tips to help you prepare:

Start early: Give yourself enough time to study by breaking down the material into manageable chunks. Starting early will reduce the anxiety that comes with last-minute cramming.
Make a study schedule: Organize your study time into blocks and stick to a routine. Include short breaks every hour to keep your mind fresh. A balanced schedule is key to staying productive.
Prioritize sleep: It might be tempting to pull an all-nighter, but your brain needs rest to function properly. A good night’s sleep is essential for memory retention and mental sharpness.

Little girl making stink face with math problems appearing on the screen.

Take Care of Your Body

When you’re busy preparing for finals, it’s easy to forget about your physical health. It’s important to remember that taking care of your body can make a huge difference in your performance. Here are a few reminders:

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your brain and body functioning at their best. Dehydration can make you feel sluggish and unfocused.
Eat nutritious foods: Fuel your brain with balanced meals that include plenty of fruits, vegetables and protein. Avoid excessive amounts of caffeine or sugary snacks because they can lead to energy crashes!
Get active: A quick walk or some light exercise can clear your mind and reduce stress. If you’re feeling stuck in your studies, take a quick walk around campus to refresh.

Practice Drug Safety and Wellness

It’s not uncommon for students to feel tempted by stimulants or other substances to stay awake and focused during finals. Be sure to prioritize your health and safety! Here are some things to keep in mind:

Avoid misusing prescription drugs: Using prescription stimulants like Adderall without a prescription is illegal and can have dangerous side effects. Relying on these substances can also lead to dependence and negatively impact your health.
Limit caffeine consumption: While a cup of coffee or an energy drink might help you feel alert temporarily, excessive caffeine intake can disrupt your sleep cycle and lead to anxiety or jitteriness. Moderation is key.
Practice safe study habits: Instead of turning to substances, try healthier study practices. Your mind will perform better when you treat it well.

Little girl smiling and putting her thumb up with words that say "You got this!"

Remember: Finals Don’t Define You

It’s easy to get caught up in the stress of finals and feel like your worth is determined by your grades, but that’s simply not the case. Your value as a student, and as a person, is not defined by one exam or one semester. Here are some things to remember:

Be kind to yourself: Finals are just one part of your academic journey. If you don’t perform as well as you’d hoped, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Use setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow.
Take breaks for mental health: Stress and anxiety are normal, but it’s important to manage them. Practice self-care, take breaks and engage in activities that help you relax and recharge. Whether it's spending time with friends, going for a walk or enjoying some pet therapy, make time for your mental health.
Reach out for support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that you don’t have to go through it alone. OSU offers many resources, from counseling services to wellness programs, that can help you navigate finals season with a clear mind.

Once finals are over, take time to celebrate your hard work, no matter the outcome. Whether you aced every exam or faced challenges along the way, you’ve put in effort and that deserves recognition.

Finals can be stressful, but with the right preparation, healthy habits and mindset, you’ll be able to finish strong. Remember, you’re more than just your grades, and taking care of your mental and physical health is just as important as acing your exams. Good luck, Cowboys!