Hello everyone or hej allihoppa! I thought a lot about what could have been a helpful post for this week. And, truth be told, I had a hard time thinking of good ideas. I felt drained, not creative, and all because it was an exam week for me. Then I had a little light-bulb-over-your-head moment – why not share exactly this?!

Exams in the LiU are different for every program. Depending on what you study, you might have a take home exam or you will need to go to an exam room. Type of exam also varies: some have problems to solve, lab works, exercises, etc.

I study master’s program in Ethnic and Migration Studies. Each class lasts for about 5 weeks and the last week is usually dedicated to a written paper. This means that I have around 7 days to plan, write, edit, and submit my assignment. For some, this might seem like a good timeframe, but it usually flies by really quickly. Here are 3 steps that help me make the most of this time, be productive, and keep my stress levels low.

  1. Making a Plan

I start off by drafting a plan for the paper and for the week itself. This includes finalizing what I am writing about exactly, such as the research question/topic and the readings that I definitely want to include. I make an outline of my paper and subchapters, and check if there is any additional reading I need to do. I usually plan out what time I want to dedicate to outside research and I set a deadline for myself for when I want to be done with it. I usually put all this in writing in my notebook, but you could also use a calendar, Notion, journal or any other resources that helps you stay on top of tasks.

It is never easy to follow this plan closely. It took several tries to understand what worked for me and what aided my procrastination. Even now, it takes a lot of self-motivation and pushing myself, but once Friday comes around and I am ready to submit the assignment with ease, I thank my past self for all of it.

  1. Find THE Spot

Everyone has their own comfort surroundings when it comes to concentration and creativity. Some of my friends prefer to keep a background noise on when they write, while others can only work in their sweatpants. I personally prefer quite environment, so my exam week often includes spending days in the library.

I found that change of scenery, as well as keeping my room as an exam-free space, increases my motivation. In addition, some of my friends also work from library and it’s always nice to chat with them during breaks, bounce ideas off of each other, and have someone to rant with when the text just is not budging. It is also important where in the library I sit. I usually choose a space next to the window. That way, if the weather is good, I can at least pretend that I am also enjoying it, and if it’s foggy and rainy, I know I am not missing out on much.

Writing in the library takes a bit of pre-planning. I make sure to always have a packed lunch and some snacks. I also keep a charger for the phone and laptop, tissue papers, chapstick, and of course – coffee mug! What would students do without coffee mugs?!

  1. Treat Yourself

Remember when I wrote about ‘making a plan’ at the beginning? I also like to make a plan for what I’m going to do in my free time during the week. I truly believe that it is crucial to keep yourself entertained and to always have something to look forward to.

Personally, I like to cook in the evenings. It is always a good idea to cook at home in Sweden, due to relatively high prices, but for me it is also a way to distress and do something nice for myself. I also try to bake during these weeks; that way I have snacks for the next day.

I make sure to keep up with my hobbies or interests too. I make time for watching favorite movies or comfort tv shows. It is also nice to go for small walks with friends or with your favorite podcasts. LiU’s ‘Fika With Us’ podcast is great for this, episodes are relatively short and always fun.

I always notice a difference in energy level and stress if I don’t make time for myself after a day of writing. So, I try my best to keep up with the schedule and treat myself for a job well done.

 

Until next time – Gvantsa

____________________________________________________________

Why not continue the conversation with us?

Start with checking out:

Our programmes, the application process, webinars, and our Instagram and Facebook account.  

Still left wanting more? Book an appointment with our recruitment coordinator at infocenter@liu.se.

Pin
Comments are disabled for this post