Somewhere in the course of education history, someone came up with the idea of having a “final.” They thought an exam that tested your knowledge on anything and everything you learned during an entire course was a good idea, a way to see if you really understood the material. We have this brilliant person to thank for one of the most stressful times of the year. But honestly, it’s not that bad. While finals are the only obstacle left between you and graduation (or a relaxing summer vacation), there’s no reason to go and get all STRESSED OUT. We’re here to help with some tips.

We all deal with our stress in different ways, and, unlike your final, there’s no right or wrong answer. So, we did some research, talked to some student nurses, and came up with a list of seven items that might help you emerge from exam season unscathed. Sit back, relax, and check it out:

• Don’t skimp on shut eye. On the night before a test, there’s nothing more important than a good night’s sleep. Cramming until 3 a.m. will only make you more stressed and will create shiny black circles under your eyes. Trust yourself. You took the class, and you did some studying during the semester. A fresh, clear mind is your best bet.
• Safety in numbers. Find a study group. Bouncing ideas and theories off other people can be a huge help come test time. Plus, there’s likely to be someone in the group who can explain that complicated problem you just aren’t getting. Conversely, if you get the chance to help someone understand a difficult topic, it will stick with you that much better.
• Comb your hair. Seriously, get all dolled up before an exam. Get up early, put on a nice outfit, and toss on some make makeup (if you’re a girl, that is. Or, if that’s your thing). When you dress for success, there’s a better chance you’ll have it. A hoodie and pajama pants don’t exactly scream “I’m ready!”
• Beat the traffic. Get to your classroom (or your computer) early on the day of the test. Having some time to get comfortable in your surroundings is crucial. Lay out everything you’re going to need for the test. There’s no moment of panic like running out of ink in the middle of a long sentence.
• Find that sweet release. Get off campus and go skydiving. Okay, maybe that’s a little extreme, but long study sessions are best broken up by things that have nothing to do with your exam. Some people like relaxing music, some people like yoga, some people like long runs, and some people like chocolate. Whatever you like, do it.
• Avoid the dark side. In this case, the dark side is coffee. While you may need it everyday, coffee has caffeine, which is a stimulant. Therefore, while you may think you’re getting an extra boost, you may be entering a world of extra anxiety. If you must drink some, keep it to a minimum.
• Just put on a happy face. Making the extra effort to smile during your most difficult weeks can change your whole perspective. Stay positive and positive results will come your way. Plus, it takes less energy to smile than it does to frown. You can use that extra energy to remember that complex equation.

Editor’s note: What do you use to cope with stress during your exams? Shoot an e-mail to mbriddon@hcpro.com and we’ll publish your answers.