Baker Dozen Study Tips
December 2, 2025
Finals week is here. Before the exams begin, a little preparation can go a long way. Here are some simple, helpful study tips to keep you organized, focused, and ready to finish strong.
- Start with a plan. Map out what you need to study each day so you’re not cramming the night before.
- If you have multiple exams in one day, prep smart. Focus your heavy studying on the earlier exam first, then give yourself a short reset (walk, snack, deep breaths) before switching gears to the next subject. Keep materials for each exam organized separately so you can transition smoothly.
- Break it down. Study in focused 25–45 minute blocks with short breaks in between to prevent burnout.
- Use active recall. Instead of rereading notes, quiz yourself, explain concepts aloud, or teach a fellow Baker School student!
- If available, practice with old exams. This is helpful to understand the flow and wording of your exam.
- Create a summary sheet. One page per class with the big ideas or themes you must know.
- Change your environment. Study in a different spot when you feel stuck. Think about bringing your materials to the Student Lounge, transition to the Reading Room, or opt for a quiet corner in Hodges Library.
- Stay hydrated and nourished. Grab a water and a meal with sustenance. As much as caffeine helps get things going, your brain cannot run on caffeine alone.
- Protect your sleep. All-nighters deplete memory and focus. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep a night, especially the night before each exam.
- Use campus resources. Visit your professor’s office hours, tutoring sessions, or study groups. Remember that Vols help Vols. You don’t have to do it alone!
- Limit digital distractions. It is easy to pick up your phone for a quick scroll break when you feel overwhelmed but try to put your phone across the room or on Do Not Disturb.
- Move your body. Take a quick walk or stretch break to boost focus.
- Take care of your mental health. Finals are stressful. Reach out to friends, advisors, or the Student Counseling Center if you need to talk.
As you wrap up your study sessions and head into finals, remember that consistent effort and steady focus are key. Trust what you’ve learned, take care of yourself, and approach each test with confidence. You’ve worked hard all semester. Now, go show what you know. Good luck, Baker students!