Well gang, it’s that time of the semester again- when sleep is a distant memory, caffeine is being administered via IV drips at a Starbuck’s near you and trying to get an open computer in the library is like trying to beat all of the other Districts into the Cornucopia. That’s right, everyone. It’s time for finals.

Now, we all know how stressful finals week can be. It’s that rare point in the semester when it’s socially acceptable not to eat, sleep or shower…well, maybe not that last part. That being said, we’ve decided to use our combined wisdom to compile a list of tips on how to survive the dreaded finals week.

First, start off your week the right way. Don’t spend all of Dead Day indoors studying. Yes, it’s good to set aside some of that Monday to be studious, but keep in mind that this is your last week before summer hits. At the end of finals, we will all disperse to our various corners of the country for three long months. So set aside some time to relax, sleep in and spend some quality time with your friends. Go outside and play football, go to the pool or go to a movie. But for goodness sake, whatever you do, don’t go to the library.

Now let’s talk health issues. Chances are, your automatic response is probably to stay up late studying, sleep in until noon on the days that you can, and stuff your face full of McDonald’s or Taco Bell on those rare occasions that you remember to eat. That’s a terrible idea, and shame on you for for thinking it. Instead, set aside some time to cook a real meal. That’s right, we said it…cook. Lay off the burgers and fries and settle in for something that feeds your brain as well as your body.

After you’ve finished your delicious home-cooked meal (or bowl of cereal for those of you who don’t know how to operate a stove), settle in for a little more study time before hitting the hay at a decent hour. Staying up late every night to cram won’t do you nearly as much good as maintaining a well-rounded sleep schedule. So set a date with your pillow. It deserves some face time this finals week.

Amidst all of the hustle and bustle, it’s easy to get lost in the moment. Just don’t get so lost in your studies that you forget to call home at least once during the week. You know that Mom is probably pacing the floor, imagining you lying in a gutter somewhere because you “never call.” (In reality, you probably called twice last week. But hey, she worries.) So humor her and pick up the phone. Let her know that you’re surviving…so far.

When it comes to studying, avoid the library at all costs. The second floor is where study habits go to die. Find a quiet place that’s free from distractions like talkative friends, loud coffee machines and that awkward couple in the corner booth, settle in with a nice cup of coffee and a motivational playlist and get down to business.

If all else fails, bribe…uh…flatter…no no…give your professor a juicy red apple, as a token of your appreciation. So good luck, fellow test takers. May the odds be ever in your favor.