The time between Thanksgiving break and Christmas break is notorious for sleepless nights, frustrated cries and endless student procrastination. It might seem hopeless at times, but that’s okay. Here are some strategies to use to make this period a bit more bearable: 

Use your resources

To succeed in class, it’s important to use all available resources. This includes Seminar time, fellow classmates and outside materials. Seminar can significantly improve your grade if used wisely. Don’t hesitate to approach your teachers with any questions you might have. If you’re not comfortable talking with your teachers, peers can be a great resource.

Make and follow a plan

Creating a schedule to maximize your time is incredibly helpful. Setting smaller goals for yourself can make the impossible task seem less daunting. Prioritize the major stressors over studying for classes that you can easily pass. 

Study techniques: Finding the study technique that works best for you is also very important. Here are a few potential techniques:  

• Mind mapping
  • This technique utilizes creative thinking by providing a visual representation of the information you know on a subject. It is known to improve memory retention and can also improve analytical and critical thinking.

• The Pomodoro Technique
  • This is a time management technique that promotes 25 minutes of study time to five minutes of a break. After a long study period of around three to four sessions, a longer break time is permitted. This technique is great if you struggle with staying focused and/or get overwhelmed.

• Feynman Technique
  • This technique can be used as a polisher before your exam. Using the knowledge of your studying, try to teach someone else the concept or talk to yourself using the simplest terminology possible. After you’re done, you can figure out any gaps you have in your understanding and go back and study that topic more in depth.

Keep your mental health in mind

It’s important to always keep in mind that grades aren’t everything. Your sanity is more important than having a perfect GPA. In the end, even if you do end up getting a good grade, would it have been worth putting yourself on the back burner?