Power Through Finals Week: Study Smarter, Stress Less

A student stands holding a notebook with books in the background.

Dec. 5, 2025

Final exams are coming. Are you ready? Whether you’re brushing up on formulas, finalizing a project or just trying to stay awake through that last chapter, we’ve got your back. Check out five practical tips to help you prep for exams, stay focused and power through finals week. Plus, explore resources from the Learning Commons that you can use all semester long — not just during crunch time.

1. Start early and plan your study sessions

Don’t wait until the night before a big exam. Break your material into smaller, bite-sized chunks and spread it across a weekly schedule. Tackling it a little at a time means less stress, better recall and fewer all-nighters.

2. Use active study strategies

Don’t just reread your notes — engage with your material. Try teaching concepts out loud to a friend, creating flashcards for a quick review or making concept maps to connect the dots. The more you interact with what you’re learning, the better it sticks.

3. Create a distraction free study zone

Your brain can’t focus if your phone is constantly lighting up. Silence notifications and stash your phone out of reach. Find a quiet place where you can concentrate, like the Learning Commons. Finally, try working in short, focused bursts — like the Pomodoro Technique — for a productive study session.

4. Review past tests, quizzes and assignments

Your old work is basically a road map to success. Reviewing past tests and quizzes will help you spot patterns in what instructors emphasize and topics worth extra attention — so you can study smarter, not harder.

5. Take care of yourself

You can’t expect your brain to fire on all cylinders if you’re running on caffeine alone. Get enough sleep, eat real food (not just from the vending machines) and give yourself actual breaks. Remember, a rested brain performs better than a stressed out.

Resources to Power Your Finals Prep

Need a boost as finals approach? The Learning Commons has you covered with Study Jam events, Dec. 1-5, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. We’ll have tutoring sessions, workshops, stress-relief activities and more.

Level Up Your Learning With Tutoring Services

Need help with math, science, reading, writing, biology or chemistry? The Learning Commons offers free tutoring for all eligible Dallas College students. Sessions are available in person and online (schedules and subjects will vary). Learn more about tutoring services.

Librarians are Your Research Guides

Working on a research paper or project? Learning Commons librarians can help you locate and evaluate sources, organize your research and even fine-tune your citations. Learn more about library resources.

Need a Laptop? We’ve Got You.

Don’t let tech slow you down. Visit the Learning Commons to check out a laptop, calculator or even a phone charger. Computer labs are also available for general student use. Learn more about device loans.

Categories: