Gobble, gobble! Do you hear that? That’s the sound of a week of freedom with zero work stress, zero classes and a ton of Netflix time (The Crown is out!). Except, what about after Thanksgiving? We have one week of classes, then finals are aggressively upon us. As a result, I always take advantage of the week preceding Thanksgiving break to get a head start on any final projects, essays or exams.

Yes, you could juggle between homework and break, but then is it really a break anymore? You could also push everything until after Thanksgiving, but what if something comes up? Imagine having three essays you need to finish, each worth 30% of your final grade, and two final exams you haven’t started studying for yet, but then you just have to go to a class you’re not in to see jugglers and magicians. That sounds like a dilemma I would rather avoid by starting early. Here are some quick tips for preparing for upcoming assignments.

For essays and projects:

Start brainstorming ideas:
Whether you’re showering, waiting in line at Bear’s Den or just walking to class, think about possible topics and write them down. It also helps to discuss with friends to spark new ideas.

Get help early:
Yes, you need help. It’s important to know if you are on the right track before you commit hours to an essay or project. With an outline of your thought process, go to your professor’s office hours to pitch your topic and get advice. Also take advantage of The Writing Center at Olin Library with peer tutors who can read over your essay.

Flesh out ideas within the outline:
Now that you know what each paragraph entails, just write whatever points, quotes/evidence or even just words that come to mind when you think about that paragraph. You can sporadically add to it, but the more you have now, the more content you will have to work with when you do write the essay. I find the coziness and tranquility of Holmes Lounge to be perfect for concentrating and writing.

For exams (finals and unit exams):

Know what the exam covers and gather materials:
Once you know what the exam is on (cumulative or not), organize all your notes, study guides and past exams or quizzes so you have all the necessary elements for studying.

Skim all material:
Look over concepts the exam may cover, just so you know what you don’t understand and so that you can reach out to professors now before everyone does after Thanksgiving to clear up confusing concepts.

Also, some general tips to not procrastinate this week:

Go to the Law School Library, Bear’s Den Private Dining Room or Olin Library B Stacks to work. The extreme silence of these environments and snarky side eyes that come with an innocent sneeze will motivate you to work.

Don’t go back to your suite to study, because you never know if your short greeting with your suitemate will evolve into a three-hour conversation or Netflix binge session. Finish your homework, then go back knowing you have completed your priorities.

Write your to-do list on your hand or on a sticky to put on your computer. That way, you are reminded of looming assignments and avoid falling into the trap that is denial.