Seniors! Just like that four years has gone by and our time here is coming to a close, but goodness it sure is dragging on. With all the tests, the assignments, the scholarship and college applications, senior year seems to be lasting forever. Although we should be (and hopefully are) having a great time and soaking up every little moment, it’s important that we pay attention to our grades and don’t let that GPA slip! It seems impossible but we can do it, so here are a few tips to keep you motivated and give you that last little push you need to get through your last year.

Organize Your Study Space

Nothing is ever going to get done if your desk is a mess. Whether your study space is your desk, a place on the floor, or even your bed, wherever you study must be organized. Take some time to organize your study space, keep pens and pencils in holders, loose leaf paper in stacks, and any other tools neat and tidy. You might find it much easier to focus when your study space is no longer messy and chaotic. However, remember not to procrastinate by excessively cleaning otherwise the work won’t get done.

Take Breaks and Reward Yourself

Careful not to misinterpret this one as–“Study for fifteen minutes and reward yourself with three hours of Netflix.” Set reasonable goals and rewards for yourself. Try studying for two hours and earning fifteen minutes of free time or buying yourself your favorite snack. It may seem unfair to yourself and like absolute agony at the time, but discipline is key for success.

Organize A Study Group

This is another one you’ll have to be careful with. Don’t round up a group of your best friends to study with, because you already know how that’s going to end. Absolutely nothing will get done and although you’ll have a good time with your friends, you’ll most likely fail that test or assignment you were trying to study for. Instead, make friends in the class you’re struggling with. Create a group chat so you can ask each other questions and motivate each other, this way you can all work together to get that grade up.

Look Over Old Assignments

Many of your teachers most likely use tools such as Schoology and Google Classroom to give you assignments, so why don’t you use them to look over past assignments? Utilize what you have! Look over past quizzes and worksheets to refresh your memory or see what you missed so you can do better the next time around. Learn from your mistakes, it’s the only way to improve.

Don’t Forget To Eat + Stay Hydrated

It sounds silly, but don’t forget to take care of yourself while studying. Eating a healthy snack and drinking water while studying will improve your concentration and make you less likely to completely stress out. Our physical health is just as important as mental health or education, so don’t skimp out just because it may seem less important.

Use Class Time Wisely

As tempting as it may seem, don’t fall asleep, talk to your friends, or just slack off in general during class. It’s in your best interest to pay attention to your lesson so you can get the most out of it. Don’t be afraid to participate in class, ask and answer the questions your teacher asks, and take notes. It’s also beneficial if you actually do the assigned homework as well, even if it’s not being taken up for a grade.

Take Decent Notes

Speaking of notes, don’t just grab an old crumpled piece of paper out of your bag. You know you’ll just scribble notes and shove it right back into your bag, never to be seen again. Get a nice notebook, invest in a few pens and highlighters. Make sure your notes and neat, legible, and organized. This is an important skill you’ll need in college so you might as well learn now.

Make Flashcards

Flashcards are an easy, effective, and inexpensive way to study. Make a set of flashcards using vocab terms you may be struggling with, the repetitive action of the cards will make it easier for you to memorize them. Be sure to keep them after you’ve taken your quiz or test, flashcards are an excellent resource for your next assignment.

Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help

Your teachers are here for a reason, so don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help. Sign up for HIVE or ask to meet after school. Even if you’re afraid or embarrassed to ask questions, your teacher will recognize your effort and will most likely be more open to helping you understand the subject.

Stay Calm + Remember To Breathe

Try to remember that this year is just like any other year and it too will pass. Don’t panic, don’t stress out, and keep pushing. Keep your head up, you’ve made it this far! Just remember that soon enough you’ll be walking across the stage and into the rest of your life.