Final stretch: smart tips to finish the year strong!
Thursday, 16 October 2025
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Studying with peers can lift focus and confidence in the final weeks.
You've made it through the middle of semester and the finish line is in sight. As the year winds down and final assessments and exams get closer, it’s normal to feel stretched thin and overwhelmed.
This guide is your quick reset – practical steps to reset your pace, plan your study, manage stress and get exam/finals ready so you can finish strong.
Top tips for the sprint to finals
Reset your pace
There’s still time to make meaningful gains. Start with a 15-minute audit: list due dates, estimate study hours per task and block them into your calendar. Protect two or three short, regular study windows each day rather than banking on one heroic marathon. Small, repeatable efforts now will make all the difference come end of semester.
Make a first pass
If it’s on your assessment list, it gets a first pass this week. For essays, go over the rubric, open a document, sketch an outline and set up your reference list. For exams, gather formulas, key cases and concepts into a one-page “map”. Momentum beats perfection.
Study the task, not just the topic
Match your prep to what you’ll be marked on. If you’re writing, practise thesis sentences and paragraph plans. If it’s problem-solving, do timed sets. For multiple choice questions, practise elimination and pacing. Close the loop: compare your practice to the rubric and adjust.
Work with others
A focused hour with peers can halve the effort. You can help each other to test your understanding, explain a concept out loud or co-create a mini quiz. If you prefer quiet company, book a Library space or try a body-double session – being “alone together” keeps you honest.
Keep your brain fuelled
Sleep is your memory’s filing system. Aim for consistent bed and wake times, keep caffeine earlier in the day and take micro-breaks that get you standing and breathing. Pick two habits you’ll actually keep: a glass of water on your desk and a 5-minute stretch between study blocks is a strong start.
When things slip
If you hit a snag (such as illness, tech issues or clashing deadlines), talk to your unit coordinator early. Check assessment policies and support options before the due date so you know what’s possible if you need it.
Need extra support?
Seeking support is a strength and reaching out early can make all the difference. Whenever you need it, ECU is here to help.
- Academic Skills Centre – Book a free consult for help with exam strategies, essay writing or managing workload.
- Library– Study essentials and expert help finding quality sources fast.
- Psychological Counselling Support – Free and confidential support is available.
- The Living Room – A welcoming student wellbeing space on campus with social events and free mindfulness sessions.
- ECU Health Service – The ECU Health Service provides affordable GP care for all enrolled students.
Looking for more tips on good study habits and getting motivated?
Download our study tip sheets or check out our wellbeing tip sheets here.
Great work – you're nearly there!
You’ve already done the hard yards; this part is about steady habits, smart practice, and using the support around you. One good study block today sets up a better one tomorrow – and that’s how you finish strong.