Many students find that their motivation starts to wane as the end of the semester approaches. You’ve already completed countless papers, projects, and tests, but you still have to face finals. To finish strong, there are a few things you need to do.

1. Stick to a Schedule

A schedule will help you fit everything you need to do into your week. Split every day into blocks of time. Designate slots for classes, working on particular assignments, preparing for exams, clubs, shifts at your part-time job, and any other commitments you have.

2. Make Time for Self-Care

Use your schedule to make sure you have time to relax every day. It’s easy to feel like you need to be studying all the time as finals approach, but this will only increase your risk of burnout. Find different activities to do that you enjoy, such as playing sports with friends, trying out a new recipe, or practising mindfulness.

3. Go to All Your Classes

If you’re worried about falling behind with your homework, it may be tempting to skip a class and use the extra time to catch up. However, you’ll likely find that it’s more difficult to study material on your own than if you had attended the class, which will only mean you’ll fall further behind.

4. Set Attainable Goals

Rather than setting one big goal (such as to pass all your classes this semester), come up with several smaller milestones. For instance, you could aim to complete a paper or readings by a certain date, exercise every day, or go to bed at the same time each night for a week. Every time you meet one of your goals, give yourself a small reward.

5. Cut Down on Caffeine

Avoid relying on caffeine in coffee and energy drinks to keep alert. You’ll find that it gradually stops having any effect and just makes you more exhausted. If you’re tired, the solution is to organize your time better until you stop needing to stay up late working on assignments.

6. Decide on Your Priorities

You may find that you no longer have enough time to do everything you’d like to do. When deciding how to use your time, think about the highest priority, rather than what appeals most.

7. Create a Comfortable Workspace

You’ll find it easier to study if you have a dedicated workspace that’s clutter free and aids your focus. Clear your desk to ensure you have plenty of space for all your papers and books, keep stationery at hand, and ensure nothing is lying around that could distract you.

8. Reach Out for Help

Never feel like you need to struggle alone. Your university likely has many resources to help you, whether you need support for your academics or mental health.

9. Cut Out Time-Wasters

Reduce the hours you spend on social media and other addictive apps on your phone. It can help to set time limits through your phone settings or just turn off notifications.

Make sure next semester goes even better than this one by finding a new room for rent. Ottawa students can live in the apartments at THEO. With great onsite amenities — such as a gym, a basketball court, and study areas — you’re sure to stay motivated. Plus, the apartments are located in the heart of downtown Ottawa, surrounded by shopping and dining options, museums, and spiritual venues. Come and see everything for yourself by booking a visit.