As finals’ week progresses for Upper School students, the stress level continues to grow. Here are some ways you can reduce stress.

1. Make a List: Making to-do lists can greatly relieve stress when you are on studying mode. At the beginning of the day, try listing out everything you want to get done. Lists will not only help you remember everything you need to accomplish, but will also help you stay organized and efficient. As you finish each task, cross it out. This can act as a motivator to work, while also allowing you to feel productive.

Tip: Keep your to-do tasks short and sweet. For example, instead of writing down “review history,” write “read history chapter 23” and “redo history test.” You will be able to cross more out, thus leading you to feel more accomplished.

2. Go Outside: Surprisingly, studying outside can relieve a lot of stress from your mind. So, take your books out to a shady spot in your backyard and spend a couple of hours studying. According to an article on Huffington Post, it has been shown that spending time outdoors can improve your memory and attention span, while alleviating stress at the same time. If you can’t study outside, at least try to spend a little bit of time with nature, whether its walking your dog or playing with your sibling.

3. Stick to the Subject: When you are studying chemistry, study chemistry. Although multitasking may seem like it will increase productivity, it actually slows you down a lot. Single-tasking is much more efficient and effective when trying to study an entire semester worth of information. Therefore, you will be able to get more done, and your stress level will decrease dramatically.

4. Study with a Partner: When you have worn yourself out with studying, but you are not ready for a break, try studying with a partner! Video chatting is often a great way to interact with others over the internet. Teach each other, ask questions, and quiz one another. You will be able to study while having fun at the same time. However, if this will detract from your productivity level, be sure not to video chat for too long.

5. Food for Thought: As we have probably all figured out at one point in our lives, food reduces stress. It’s a fact. However, it is important to pick the right types of “study foods,” so be sure not to resort to a bag of chips. Instead try blueberries, nuts, milk, oranges, or tea. All of these have been found to alleviate stress if you are anxious. However, if you’re not up for these tasty treats, chew gum while studying. It will help you stay concentrated and focused.