Calling all juniors! First of all, take a deep breath. We are so close to the end of the most stressful year of high school. For those of you taking standardized tests in June, however, the pressure has become almost unbearable. With finals looming over us, it seems almost impossible to handle final exams, SATs, ACTs, and SAT IIs. You may just want to give up, check out, or quite honestly just cry…but have no fear! It is possible to prepare for finals and standardized tests without feeling overwhelmed.
With regard to your English final project, get started as soon as possible. Don’t wait until the last minute to put together your presentation (and index cards). These presentations can take a long time, so doing a little every day will make the overall workload less stressful.
Spread out your studying. Finals usually cover a lot of material, and the last thing you want to do is cram all of your studying into the night before your exam (especially if you have two tests in one day). Assign yourself a chapter to review every two or three days, and read over notes and other sources. Even reviewing the material you covered in January will make you feel more confident about knowing the coursework.
Ah, standardized tests. With all of this schoolwork, it feels like there is no time to study for the upcoming SAT or ACT. Don’t give yourself this excuse! Remember, studying for your finals can also help prepare you for the standardized tests, especially with the math sections or the Math SAT II; however, don’t rely solely on this tactic. These standardized tests are designed in a specific manner, and practicing a few questions a day will not only help your score, but will also boost your confidence going into the test. Try and set aside just 20 minutes a day at a certain time and stick to it. Skip that daily scroll through Instagram…or even hide your phone and computer in another room! The 20 minutes will fly by. Keep your mind stimulated and active, and before you know it these tests will be over, leaving you free for the summer. Best of luck!
