It’s the most stressful time of the year for many IU students. Finals week is quickly approaching. What works and what doesn’t when studying? And when and how should students study? Having healthy study habits is essential to passing exams and relieving unwanted stress.

Many students lock themselves in the library and study for hours for their finals exam. Some pull all-nighters and don’t stop studying for 9 or more  hours but experts say this can have the opposite effect. Many studies recommend students take long breaks between studying and get good sleep. Another ineffective study habit is procrastination. It’s important that students study early to relieve any additional stress and pressure.

IU students can tend to be distracted by social media, cell phones or technology. Turning off the phone and locking it away can help cut down hours of distraction and force students to focus better. But not all students take this route to focus. And not all students get a good nights rest. Students can turn to “study drugs” like adderall. Experts say  prescription drugs and all-nighters can lead to students downfall.

The IU Health Center gives suggestions to students who may be struggling with overwhelming stress. They recommend taking a 10 minute break once an hour compared to the non-stop 9 hours some students do. The health center also suggests developing a study plan and rewarding yourself for making progress in specific areas.

IU faculty member Audrie Osterman makes sure she doesn’t pile on work to her students during finals week or the week before–dead week. She also tries to be understanding with her students when it comes to what they have to do and how much time they need to do it.

“I’m willing to move my schedule around when it comes to deadlines or extra assignments to help my students out,” Osterman said. “I also suggest not waiting until the last minute and developing a study plan. Just start early and drinks lots of water and get good rest.”

For many students, finals week is there last chance to improve their grade in their class. Because teachers don’t always allow extra credit, the pressure is on for students to make a bad grade, a good grade.