Stressed out? By the end of dead week, most students are already burned out and ready for it all to be over; however, there are still two weeks worth of exams to deal with. So here are a few tips to help in exam preparation. These will help you spend fewer nights cramming and more time enjoying those last few moments of college freedom.

1. Get enough sleep. At least six hours of sleep is recommended for your brain to be able to function properly; eight hours is ideal. Lack of sleep can negatively affect your retention as well as comprehension – you could even fall asleep during your exam!Also, don’t replace sound sleep with naps. Napping can be positive if you are getting the right amount of sleep in the first place. Otherwise, it will throw off your sleep cycle. Good sleep habits are essential.

2. Try to snack healthily. Studies show that people, when stressed, like to eat crunchy food; it helps get out some of that aggression. Avoid the chips and cookies, especially late at night, and stick to crunchy fruits and vegetables, like apples and celery or sugarless gum. Small, prepackaged vegetables, such as baby carrots, are a smart choice.

3. Pace yourself. Never study for more than two or three hours in a row. Hardcore studying can drain you, so be sure to take a break every now and then to do something you enjoy. Taking your mind off the task at hand will make you feel more at ease with it when you return. You may even be shocked with the amount of information you remember.

4. Avoid cramming. It may seem like a great idea at the time, but it isn’t as productive as making the time in advance to review the material. If possible, span your studying out over a few days. It will benefit not only your ability to retain the information but also your mood.

5. Exercise! Exercise, in any shape or form, releases endorphins that make you feel happy and relaxed. Be sure to take time out to just wind down; it will have a positive effect on your comprehension and will significantly decrease your stress level.

This information was gathered through Erin Robinson, Student Health Promotions’ intern