With papers, presentations, projects and exams, finals week can feel like a whirlwind. But don’t stress, Warriors!  You can finish the semester strong with a solid plan and the right strategies. 

Here are seven tips to help you prepare for final exams and take care of yourself along the way: 

1. Create a study schedule (and stick to it!) 

Cramming the night before? Not the best idea! Start early by mapping out your exam dates and planning daily review sessions. Use a calendar or planner to block off study time and focus extra attention on your most challenging subjects. Breaking your review into manageable time blocks will help you stay organized and reduce stress. 

2. Find your study zone  

Whether you concentrate best in a busy spot in the Student Center, a meeting space inside of State Hall or the calm of the Undergraduate Library (UGL), having a go-to study spot is key. During finals week, take advantage of 24-hour study areas – perfect for night owls and early risers. Also, check out the extra study sessions for large enrollment courses. 

3. Tap into campus resources 

You’re not alone. Wayne State offers free academic and tech support to help you succeed: 

• The Academic Success Center offers peer-assisted learning and tutoring, workshops, and more.  

• The University Library System offers 24/7 librarian support, citation style guides and more. 

• Technology support and services are available through the C&IT Help Desk. Call, email or stop in for one-on-one help with any WSU IT systems. 

Don’t wait until the last minute – reach out early! Asking for help shows you're planning, and it's one of the smartest things you can do. 

4. Test yourself 

Practice exams, flashcards and self-quizzing are proven ways to reinforce your memory. Apps like Quizlet or even old-school index cards can help you actively recall the information you need on test day. The key is consistency – just 10 to 15 minutes a day of review can make a big difference come test day. 

5. Take care of your body and brain 

Rest, nutrition and hydration are just as important as hitting the books. Prioritize sleep, stay hydrated and fuel up with healthy meals from campus dining. Need a boost? Grab a smoothie or coffee from the Student Center to power through. Don’t forget to stop by the Late Night Breakfast, April 23 from 9 p.m. until midnight. 

6. Take study breaks 

Time block is another secret to studying. Try to set a timer for 25 minutes of focused study followed by a 5-minute break to avoid burnout. Use that time to stretch, breathe or walk around campus. The Mort Harris Fitness and Recreation Center is a great place to move your body and clear your mind. 

During final exam week, de-stress stations will be available in the Student Success Hub  inside of the UGL if you need a break from studying or want to mentally prepare before an exam. 

7. Stay positive and give yourself grace 

Take a moment to recognize your hard work and growth. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, lean on your support system – talk to a friend, connect with a professor, or reach out to the Campus Health Center, or take advantage of Counseling and Psychological Services’ “Let’s Talk service"

You’ve got this, Warriors!