Final Exams: The Day Of

   My last post gave you a few of my strategies for a (relatively) good final exams period.  But after all of that studying, you eventually have to take your test.  Here's what I do on the morning of the exam to get myself through in good shape.

1. Wake up at least an hour before your exam (this is a tip from my SAT prep teacher - applicable to any test, really!).  You want to make sure your blood is pumping and you're fully awake!
2. Eat breakfast.  I don't put much weight in "brain foods", but eating a healthy breakfast before a test cannot hurt.  I usually eat apple slices and peanut butter  or a cup of oatmeal.  I recommend something with fiber and protein, so that you will stay full.
3. That being said, bring food and drink for your test.  Always, always bring a water bottle (exams are long, and thirst is distracting).  If your professor or teacher lets you, consider bringing a quiet snack, so that you don't distract people if you get the munchies.  I recommend a soft granola bar (such as a NutriGrain bar) or dried fruit (like raisins).
4. Pick your clothes carefully.  Anything too casual, for instance, makes me feel like I'm in pajamas, and I get sleepy.  However, business formal attire is not comfortable and therefore distracting.  I usually go with jeans or chinos and a button-down shirt.  
5. Same goes for shoes - don't wear anything distracting, but don't wear your slippers.  I always wear ballet flats, because riding boots distract me when I cross my legs, and sandals (in the spring) sometimes leave my toes cold.
6. Wear or bring a watch so that you can set a pace for your exam, then keep it.  Don't actually wear the watch unless you find it comfortable.
7. Don't wear any strong perfume - it may distract you or your classmates.
8. Sit in your usual seat, if possible.  You never know what kind of memories familiarity might jog - it might just help you remember the answer to that one question you forgot!
9. Take a break - most professors (unless they're just really cruel) will let you take a bathroom break. Do it.  Stretch, sigh, and give yourself a pep talk.
10. Breathe!  When people are nervous, they tend to take shallow breaths.  This feeds into feelings of stress, in my experience, and stress helps no one.  You have prepared for this; you can do it!

Fellow students, Christmas break is within reach!  You're almost there!