by Emmy Kirkham
Finals week is the most dreaded week in high school and it is quickly approaching. After conducting a survey of the students at New Prairie High School, most feel unprepared to study for finals and many said they do not study at all.
Sixty percent of students believe they do not have efficient study habits, possibly impacting their final grade. The other 40% offered advice on how to study for finals, and what had been successful for them.
Finals are worth 14% of the semester grade, while quarter one and two are worth 43% each. One senior shared a method of calculating the grade they will need to earn in order to stay in the “A range”. Many websites, such as rogerhub.com/final-grade-calculator/, will calculate what grade to aim for on the final based on semester grade, what grade the student wants to earn, and what percentage of the grade is determined by the test.
“By working hard all semester, I don’t have to study as much for my finals,” said one New Prairie senior.
The final test revolves around the subjects learned in class, so taking notes during lessons can help later on in the semester.
Teachers are willing to help answer questions that anyone may have during a lesson or workday. Asking questions can provide one-on-one time with a teacher and better understanding of a topic.
“Plan what you’re going to study ahead of time so that you don’t waste time,” said one student.
Materials can also improve study habits. The majority of students prefer notes, flash cards, and handouts from teachers. A few students suggested using past tests and quizzes and reading through text book chapters.
Collecting materials, such as old homework assignments and handouts before studying can help with time-management and organization. Everything will be in one place, and time won’t be wasted looking through folders for a certain paper.
The Quizlet app contains flashcards about almost any subject or topic. There also is an option to make flash cards to personalize the terms.
Another senior recommended “keeping a planner to make sure all of your assignments stay organized.”
Forty three percent of students begin studying one week before finals, around 30% begin the week of the test, and few begin two or more weeks before. When to begin studying should be based on personal preference and how easy it is to review the topics.
While studying for finals, it is important to carefully look at the materials, yet it is also very important to avoid getting too stressed.
“I take constant breaks right when I realize I’m not retaining the amount I need to,” explained a junior. Many students have taken similar approaches, such as studying for twenty to thirty minutes, then taking a five minute break to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
Using past tests and homework, notes, or taking breaks while studying are all effective mechanisms, yet, as one student said, “it’s mostly based on personal motivation and personal achievement.”