DeKALB | Finals week is finally here. Since the pressure of studying for exams may seem overwhelming, here are a few tips for making sure you’re ready for test day.

1: As tempting as it may be, don’t cram everything in the night before.

According to the Counseling and Student Development Center’s website, “three 20 minute study sessions broken up by two ‘rest periods’ is more effective than one 60 minute study session.” That way you can keep your concentration even when looking at a book or study guides all night long.

Kim Cecil, licensed clinical social worker at NIU, agreed, suggesting to “break studying up into manageable chunks.”

2: Study in groups.

It may seem like this may be more distracting than helpful, but working with other people gives students the chance to ask questions aloud.

Cecil said studying in groups can be effective, but it may not work for everyone. Some people may find working alone to be less distracting, while others enjoy working with peers.

“I find a group more productive because I’m able to bounce ideas and questions off of the friends I’m with,” said freshman undecided major Matt O’Connor. “It’s really helpful when you’re unsure of something, and there are three or four other people there to refresh your memory and make things clearer.”

3: Use professors; that’s what they’re there for.

The Counseling and Student Development Center’s website suggests being “assertive and seeking advice: utilize office hours.”

The website also stated if you can’t make it to their office hours, ask professors questions either throughout or after class.

“They may ‘leak’ hints about what’s on the test,” the website stated.

4: Studying doesn’t always have to be serious. Make it fun.

Using techniques to get the mind active may help when it comes to remembering certain answers.

Another method to use is “mnemonic devices,” the website stated. “For example, acronyms (ROY G BIV), memorable associations, rhyme, etc.”

Kyle Hardin, sophomore physical education major, said a group of his friends took a class together and when finals came around, they made a huge jeopardy game out of it.

“It made things interesting,” Hardin said. “It wasn’t all about going crazy, trying to remember everything. It took the stress of having to study off and made things more relaxing and free feeling. I’d say it definitely made remembering everything easier when the test came around.”

5: Find somewhere different to study.

According to the Counseling and Student Development Center’s website, it’s also helpful to find a “productive study location: an area free from distractions.” That way there is no room for friends, televisions and other distractions to deter studying.

“I like to go somewhere quiet,” said sophomore accountancy major Cristine Estrada. “Somewhere with very few distractions to keep me focused. Oh and coffee. Lots and lots of coffee helps.”

Cecil said to find a place that works best for you and takes away all distractions, even if that means putting your phone on silent.