Final Jitters

[saigorijavolu2k]

Sleep!!!

Throughout the week review all the material and the day before just do practice and make sure you are eating and sleeping

[Areli C 1L]

Exactly! Stressing out or cramming at the last minute is never a good idea. It'll only increase anxiety ;(
-I know it does for me.

[Dan M -3E]

The biggest thing I try to think that helps to stay calm during tests like the final is just to convince myself right before the test that if I come across a problem that I don't immediately know how to solve, that I am smart enough to solve any problem that could be on the test. We are all smart enough to have gotten into UCLA, and are all smart enough to have gotten through 14a and still be here. I just know that as soon as the test ends, there is nothing more I can do, so while I'm in that room, I'm going to do everything I can and that I can solve every problem if I try

[Ryan_K_1K]

I usually focus on anxiety-preventive behaviors before my anxiety has the opportunity to come at me full force. I study early on to prevent cramming and take frequent breaks during long study sessions. Also, calling a trustworthy friend or a family member is a good way to calm down. Hope this helps anyone reading and good luck studying!!

[Amy Xiao 1I]

I think one should cram (if you must cram) the full day/night two days before the final and then take it easy the day before; sleep and have a good meal and just review lightly in the 24 hours before the final!

[Maika Ngoie 1B]

For me, something that always helps is to get to the test location early. Just helps calm my nerves about familiarizing and getting comfortable with the area. Also, when the testing begins, try not to focus too much on what everyone else is doing, and tune out anything that may be happening in the testing room.

[Jade Hinds 2B]

these are all great suggestions. but now i'm feeling very nervous about the undecided plans for our final exam now that classes are cancelled. Who thinks it will still go as scheduled for Sunday?

[Maika Ngoie 1B]

I always try to get there a bit earlier to calm my nerves, just helps familiarize myself with the testing area.

[EMurphy_2L]

hopefully now, having the test environment removed from the situation helps!

[Mariah]

I usually listen to music before the exam and try not to think about it. Also, if I know the material well, I am not that nervous. So, yeah practising does help.

Now you can listen to music during!!

[Reina Robles 2B]

So I know that the format for the final has changed so it's a lot easier, but this topic is still super helpful to me. Thank you to everyone who posted here!

[Leyna Dang 2H]

maybe focus on your breathing and trying to relax? listening to music could also help you calm down a bit

[Jose Robles 1D]

Online test has me a bit nervous, should I be worried even if it's open book?

[JesseAuLec1Dis1G]

I just like to practice a lot. At the end of the day it's just one test one quarter out of one year here. At the end of the day, everything will work out fine. You've done your best.

I hope this helps. Good luck!

[JosephineF]

Treat it like the SAT. Every question is weighted roughly the same so do a once over where you answer everything you know off the top of your head. Then go back over and spend some time with the ones you skipped. Then go over it one last time to check that you did them all correctly and didn't make any silly algebra mistakes. Good luck to everyone!

[Brian J Cheng 1I]

Drinking a nice warm beverage and getting adequate sleep would help greatly. I've found that to be very helpful on occasion.

[Adriana_4F]

Believe in yourself everyone! We can do this! Take a deep breath for 3 seconds and exhale for 4. Think positively! A positive mind starts the grind! Also, superhero pose really works haha

[Ivan Tadeja 1G]

To be honest the only thing keeping me sane is the 50% policy to pass this course. With chem being my weakest subject, that's the only reason I'm able to pass this course.

[805383532]

I hope all of this advice helped! :)

[Alexandra Salata 2L]

what I find most useful is when I relax a bit the night before. instead of cramming through the night you should try and get a good night of sleep. then in the morning, you should look through topics that you are the least confident in or compile some quick exam questions just to go through to boost your confidence. hope this helps :)

[Callan Howard]

Hi Marina,

If you try all of the wonderful tips my classmates have posted and still feel that your anxiety is affecting your performance during exams I recommend talking to someone at UCLA’s CAE. One of the accommodations they offer is extended time, which can really help test anxiety, just knowing that you aren’t going to run out of time.

Hope this helps :)

[BaileyB1F]

I try to take a couple deep breaths, close my eyes and tell myself some words of encouragement (You got this, try your best, take your time), and removing anything that could distract me.

[Thomas Gimeno]

It helps to take practice tests. Either ones you find online or one you make yourself, they give you confidence and help you to know what to expect out of the test. Its a lot less scary to do something for the 5th time than to do it for the first time.

[Bella Bursulaya 3G]

I struggle with the same problem! I often find that letting yourself be a little nervous right before the exam is ok, but as soon as you start, try to focus. Your nerves will go away as you start taking the exam. You're only nervous because you don't know what types of questions will be asked and are afraid you won't know the answers, at least that is the way for me. As you see you're able to solve the problems your nerves should decrease! Also, I find it helps my nerves, for some reason, to start flipping through the test and start where ever I want. I don't know why, but it helps me personally, maybe it'll help you too!

[Anastasia Yulo 1C]

I allocate a set time to review my notes and perhaps for practice problems, but not too much time at once. If I overspend my time all at once for studying I am overwhelmed. So, maybe 30 min of skimming over my notes, and then 20 minutes doing some problems. That is one session. Then, I take breaks to do self-care (working out, creativity, walking,)! After my break, I return to my review.

[Emily_Stenzler_2H]

Does anyone know how to calm down your anxieties before you take this final? Since having test anxiety can be very distracting while you're trying to study or even while you're taking the test itself. Open to any tips:)

This may not be as applicable in quarantine, but going to the CAE with your concerns may prove to be very beneficial! There are a number of resources provided by the CAE to accommodate stressful test taking if you qualify to enroll with the center. Best of luck!

[Megan ODonnell 3F]

I always just try not to wake up right before the test starts, but rather give myself enough time in the morning to have a routine to make food, brush my teeth, etc. I also find it helpful to do some last minute review or practice problems to get my brain warmed up. Hope this helps!

[joshtully]

I try to get a good night of sleep before big exams, and I wake up early and give myself enough time to get prepared.

[Claudia_Danysh_2B]

Hi Marina! First, I want to say that everybody is also nervous to some extent and that you're not alone! :) One of the main things that helps me to not be so nervous is honestly to just study the material until I feel comfortable with it. One of the reasons why I get anxiety about school is that I feel unprepared and so preparing even more helps me significantly! I also love to go on a run or walk my dogs or anything that can get me out of the house and exercising; it helps me get rid of a lot of my nerves. Hope this helps!

[Kyle Dizon 3A]

Often, I try to relax by changing the scenery where I am and surrounding myself with sounds that calm me down such as songs. Personally, I try to listen to my body and my mind in order to avoid over stressing and preventing anxiety attacks. Try to spread out your studying time as well.

[LeahSWM 2E]

If you feel you have studied your best, there's no need to overthink it. Meditate, eat a good breakfast, and remember you're more than capable!

[305614361]

I usually use a stress ball and it really helps calm me down

[Edward Castro]

During the day of the test, take the time to clear your mental health. At this point its either you know it or you don't. It is good to have a clear mind in order to do your best during the test.

[alebenavides]

I also get really anxious before exams. something I try to do to clam down is go for a walk or run to calm my mind down. its relaxing

[Kevin Pilcher 3J]

BREATHING EXERCISES AND HOT TEA. An hour before my final I did some breathing techniques and drank some hot tea, it helped SO MUCH.

[almost_ethan]

Yes, I would definitely suggest doing something, other than studying, the hour prior to the exam (midterm or final). Something to put your mind at ease, like going on TikTok for a bit.

[ShinwooKim_3E]

Does anyone know how to calm down your anxieties before you take this final? Since having test anxiety can be very distracting while you're trying to study or even while you're taking the test itself. Open to any tips:)

If I can go back, I would definitely not sleep for two hours, because by the end of the test I had no idea what I was reading :(

[Siwa Hwang 3G]

I like to stretch for 5 minutes especially my neck and shoulders before taking a test :)

[Kiara Phillips 3L]

Recently I found that having cup of tea or water by my side helps me. I suggest tea because the smell might calm you even if you do not stop for a drink.

[605291562]

Hi! I've also had increased jitters when it comes to taking exams online! Some things that I have found helpful include scheduling in breaks for myself, waking up early that day after getting a good nights sleep and getting lots of exercise and time outside so I can get a little time away from screens. All of the tips shared above have been greAat as well!

[Valerie Tran 2B]

Make sure you're as prepared as possible and not just with the material but also your workspace. Especially with online testing, making sure you have a good connection, a quiet place, all your materials, etc. Knowing that you're prepared can help ease a lot of anxiety. Don't try to last-minute cram the day of a test, it won't benefit you and can make you more nervous. Instead, eat a good meal, listen to some music and just try to relax the day of. During the test, just focus on the problem, don't think too much about the what if's.

[Juwan_Madaki_3K]

Another technique that I find best for myself is by being confident and giving myself positive affirmations. If I come into an exam convinced I'm going to perform badly, then I most likely will. Avoid worrying about worst-case scenarios and remain optimistic!

[Austin Aldujaili 2D]

Over time, developing test taking strategies as well as an understanding of what a professor wants during an exam or what he/she focuses on is very helpful. I also believe in the idea of studying very lightly before the final (given you have a solid understanding of everything before).

[MichaelMendozaD1F]

essential oil on the neck and temples helps

[Brenda Silva 1B]

Continue to study and just know that you have been studying for it the whole quarter. Take breaks when you need them and do breathing exercises before the exam to go in a bit more calm.

[Shana Patel 1C]

Right before the final, I feel like it is important to take a few minutes to relax and not stress about anything. You need a clear mind before focusing.
Also, I would recommend reading ahead of time, before finals week, because there is so much to do and it will be overwhelming to finish everything within a few days. Make short notes and write down key points that will help you remember lectures. This way you can refresh your knowledge faster later on.

[Michelle Nguyen 3F]

Before finals, I would just take a deep breath in and out to calm down! It's already a big accomplishment to make it this far into the quarter, let alone take the test. :) If you need to study at the last minute, I suggest studying the second to last night before the test. Cram during that time, and you can get sleep during the night before the test.

[Lizbeth Garcia 1F]

I tend to listen to some classical music and drink tea to calm my jitters while studying. Before taking tests, I tend to do breathing excercises.

[Julianna Shimabukuro 1D]

I also get testing anxiety, but try to be confident in yourself. Having self doubt will only increase the possibility of you forgetting the information or doing it wrong. Also, do something you enjoy before the test to take your mind off of it such as playing with your pets, playing a video game, or watching your favorite television show. Otherwise, you will hyper-focus on the test and end up stressing yourself even more. Also, surround yourself with those who are optimistic and can encourage you that you will be fine so that you will have the right mindset going in.

[805377003]

Spacing my studying out over time always helps the most.

[keely_bales_1f]

This year I have been taking a meditation course that has been helping me with my anxiety. Just taking a few minutes out of your day to focus on your breathing has been a big help for me personally. However, if you have more final jitters regarding content, making a study guide and a study group would be extremely helpful. Doing all the textbook problems and reading the textbook would not hurt as well. However, if you are just stressed out in general, physical activity and meditating is helpful for many people.

[Moura Girgis 1F]

I always eat a good, healthy, meal the day before my test and something light light a nutrition bar the morning of. That usually keeps me energized helps me think better when taking the test.

[Simi Kapila_3E]

Feeling really prepared helps me. Usually doing as many practice problems as you can, so you feel like there is nothing you haven't seen. But besides that, you could try going for a quick walk before the test, or doing some deep breathing to help calm your nerves.

[ShinwooKim_3E]

I have anxiety also waiting for test results :')

[Helena Hu 3E]

I try not to study the day of because I don't want to stress myself out. I just trust that I did my best with my studying, eat a good breakfast before, get a good nights sleep and believe that you can do it! Good luck!

[Truman Chong Dis 3G]

I find that listening to some up-beat pop music always helps to relax me. But honestly, any music that you like would probably help you relax and ease your anxiety slightly.

[Annie Tong 2G]

For me I usually watch a video that's not related to the exam to distract myself from nerves right before taking it. Exercising or even just taking a walk around the neighborhood might also help if you've got the time.

[Hana Sigsbee 3B]

I try to not stay up too late the night before studying, and if anything do maybe a quick review of the topics you feel you need it in the most. The night before I like to meditate or do yoga before bed and make sure I get a good night's sleep. I have my discussion early in the morning but I try to wake up at least an hour before the test is set to start so I don't feel rushed and I make sure I have my testing area set up the night before. Just take a few deep breaths before you start the test and just be confident in what you know.

[Seraphina Joseph 1C]

Remember that you did all the preparations so whatever happens happens

[Mrudula Akkinepally]

The night before the exam do something that calms you down. For example, I like to do a face mask and watch my favorite show while not worrying about anything else. And then don’t study the day of the test!! I know it can be difficult but you’ll psych yourself out. Just prep leading up to it but relax the night before and the day of!

[805377003]

I always find it helpful to do some self care before an exam.

[Victoria_Sauceda_1B]

I think a good way to calm down are to practice breathing and to keep yourself from procrastinating. Try to keep yourself on track these last 3 weeks and finish strong.

[AdilaAhmed3I]

Does anyone know how to calm down your anxieties before you take this final? Since having test anxiety can be very distracting while you're trying to study or even while you're taking the test itself. Open to any tips:)

Honestly, one thing that might cause you more anxiety is if you keep trying to cram right before the test (like the hour prior) or try to study something new. You most likely will not retain it and will just cause yourself more anxiety. My studying strategy has been do the sapling and look over their explanation if I missed something, go through my lecture notes and if I don't understand something to either watch a video about it or look it up in the textbook (not my preferred one but still works), do some textbook problems to make sure I grasped the material and do the UA worksheets. The hour prior to the test, I just relax and watch youtube or do something else because I want to go into the test feeling calm. I totally get the jitters and anxiety and it was something that I've been dealing with since high school but finding like a routine for studying has been my biggest help in calming down the jitters.

[vbarian27]

if you study a lot, you will do well. be confident!

[Madeline Marron 1I]

I think someone also said this but i ran Cross Country in high school so I would get mad anxiety before my races and what helped me was just realizing that I had put in the work and worrying about it was only making myself go through unnecessary pain(obviously just telling yourself you are fine wont fix it lol, but over time it helps build confidence). I use to meditate when I was alone but when I'm around others I found forcing myself to socialize and make jokes to make myself laugh would make me feel better.

[Jack Kettering 3D]

I just take deep breaths and remind myself of how much I am well prepared to make myself more confident going into big tests like the final :)

[Jessica Hu 3L]

While studying, don't be afraid to take breaks. If you overload too much, it can cause mental strain. Additionally, during the exam itself don't think about how fast or slow you're going as that can also stress you out.

[Nick P 3D]

Try chewing a specific type of gum or flavor of gum while you study, and then chewing the same gum when you take the test. This can help you recall the same information from when you were studying and also give you a little peace of mind that reminds you of the preparation you put in.

[805421690]

Does anyone know how to calm down your anxieties before you take this final? Since having test anxiety can be very distracting while you're trying to study or even while you're taking the test itself. Open to any tips:)

I find it very helpful to put on meditation music or just nature recordings of rain or waterfalls, and then just closing my eyes and meditating! I hope this helps goodluck!

[805421690]

Remember to get enough sleep, I know a lot of us try to do cram-studying the night before, but this should be the night you go to bed early! Also hydrate and eat a good meal before taking the test, it may seem small but it goes a long way! Good luck everyone!

[Sheryl Ocampo 1D]

I think it helps to start preparing far in advanced. If I feel like I've practiced and know the material well, I experience less test anxiety. For studying, I find it also helps to study in a place where you're comfortable and to practice self-care

[Eve Gross-Sable 1B]

For me, it helps to look at the outlines and check off what I know and what I need to work on. Once I know that I develop the knowledge by doing the practice problems/watching videos if I must. It also helps that you can always post questions on here!

[almost_ethan]

The Organic Chemistry Tutor! One of the most effective ways I study is by going over the questions from both the hw and the textbook--for the concepts I don't really understand, I watch the Organic Chemistry Tutor's YouTube videos.

[Margaret Wang 2D]

I do a loooooot of practice problems to the point where I know that there's literally nothing more I could have done to prepare so there's no point in being nervous because I have already tried my best.

[Charisma Arreola 2F]

I highly recommend setting aside a few hours to do absolutely nothing but watch your favorite movie or show, and either have an herbal tea or a feel-good snack you may not always have.

[Charisma Arreola 2F]

Also, to study and feel like you have a firm idea of the concept, rewrite some of the facts/problems that are harder for you so that you remember them better and are able to feel more comfortable with those topics.

[Jaclyn Dang 3B]

Relax and breathe before taking the exam. Sit at your desk a little earlier than the final time so that you can mentally prepare yourself. I like to mentally tell myself "I can do this, imma get an A" lol it seems to kinda work.

[Mahnoor_Wani_1I]

I always have test anxiety right before any test. The best thing to do in my opinion is finding a study routine that works best for you (aka not procasinate and divide things up for study) and clearing your mind by doing what you like the most (watching movies, talking a walk, or sleeping)

[Mariah Disc 2C]

For the final I am going to try and prepare as early as possible to alleviate stress from cramming.

[Angela Marie Guevarra Dis3F]

Reading everyone's responses has been really helpful! Ideally, I get a good amount of sleep the night before and eat a good breakfast to take care of my body before tests. Unless I have something else going on before the test, I'll distract myself with music or videos to get me in a good mood, or I'll journal. I try not to psyche myself out too much so I'll have a good mindset going into the actual exam. But at the same time, it's completely normal and valid to feel nervous before our chemistry exams. Take it easy and do what you need to do for yourself to feel confident the day of the final.

[James Patanian 2C]

I like what everyone is saying and when it comes to cramming at the last minute, cramming material does more harm than good but I've found that going over the format of the test before it starts can be pretty therapeutic. In this case though, we know that it's going to be x amount of multiple choice questions within a reasonable time frame, so we can keep that in mind when studying!

[105405231]

There are a lot of great tips that have been posted on here! Remember--since this quarter has been online to take rest breaks that include taking a break from electronics so that you don't strain your eyes or feel overwhelmed from staring at a screen all day. Good-luck everyone!

[Lillian]

Make sure you stand up and stretch every 20-30 minutes when you study! Give yourself enough breaks so that your brain has time to process the information as you pick it up. It's really good for both physically and mentally (we need as much of that during this pandemic lol).

[Darren1j]

I usually set a time the day before a test to STOP studying and start relaxing. Theres a trade off between studying and de stressing, and if you cram too much the day before, the balance will get disrupted. You should do all the textbook problems that you can, and go to as many workshop, US, step up sessions as well. Ask any, any questions you have. But please, like Dr. Lavelle said, try to do some physical exercise and remember a number doesn't define you!

[Lily Anne Garcia 1C]

Its important to get a lot o frest the night before. I also remind myself that at that moment, it is the most prepared i can be. stressing only creates anxiety for taking the test. just breathe :)

[almost_ethan]

Honestly, I would just plan accordingly. You're going to be stressed out regardless--whether you know the material or not--so I think the best thing would be to create a study schedule, to ease most of the worry. Find your weak areas and work to strengthen them, please do not procrastinate!!

[Aliya Roserie 3I]

I think what helps is not studying the day of the exam because we can often overthink our own self confidence.

[805377003]

The night before take some time to relax. There is no point trying to cram information in the last minute. I recommend taking this time to give your brain a rest and do something you enjoy and then get a good nights rest.

[Nathaly Cruz 2D]

I think being well rested and having eaten something before an exam improves your performance. I've noticed that when I am tired or hungry, I perform worse on my exams than when I have slept well and eaten.

[Rayna Irving 2C]

I usually take a few breaths during the test and plan out how much time I have for each question so I don't feel so rushed. I also make sure I've done practice problems before and stop studying at least 10 minutes before the test so I have time to get everything together and calm down.

[AmyHo2K]

I get really bad test anxiety too and I found that doing jumping jacks helps a little with getting rid of the jitters.

[miguel zatarain 2B]

I also have pretty bad test anxiety but what I usually do is relax the day before I take the test in order to calm my nerves down.

[Emily_Stenzler_2H]

I also like to practice self care, especially right before the final. The day of, I like to take a shower and get into comfortable clothes so I feel my best while taking the exam!

[Sheryl Ocampo 1D]

I think that preparing well and getting plenty of sleep the night before would help calm test anxiety. Also, you might want to think about drinking tea or doing yoga beforehand

[Jonathan Malau 1F]

To get rid of jitters, one thing I do is simply listen to my breath, so that I can stay in the present moment as opposed to letting my mind wander towards feeling anxious.

[Nathaly Cruz 2D]

In order to reduce my nerves before a test, I tend to meditate. I've found that it helps me think more clearly and second guess myself less.

[Violet Kwan 3H]

I try to prep everything the night before (printing out the material or organizing my workspace) so I can feel more prepared. I sometimes call my friends before our exams either to take our minds off of it or to encourage each other! Also, being stressed can also be a sign that your body is preparing itself to take on a challenge, so try to have a good mindset about the stress :). You got this!!

[905579227]

Ok so how are yall studying for this final because I feel like i need 10 more weeks just to study for this final, My last midterm really made my grade take a hit. Im very scared and nervous for this exam.
So does anyone have tipd that they wish to share, PLEASE

[Sami Siddiqui 1J]

For me, I usually designate a decent amount of time to take study breaks from doing a ridiculous amount of practice questions. It's very helpful to realize that, in the end, stressing about the test isn't going to do much good for you physically nor will it likely end up bolstering your performance. In fact, it might hamper your focus and do the opposite.

[905579227]

Also very quick question that I cannot seem to find the answer to, Where to a find how this final is going to be structured?