It is the final countdown – just one week before prep week, where students will begin locking in and locking down their final grades. Prep week starts April 29, lasting until May 3. Here are some reminders, tips and tricks to keep you on track:

1. Utilize free materials for students

• Shovel – A time management tool for students that syncs with Canvas for productivity.
• Grammarly – A digital writing tool that helps correct grammar, plagiarism and spelling.
• Iowa State Writing and Media Center – Extra help with written, oral and visual projects in addition to career guidance

2. Prep week special hours

• Parks Library is open regular hours during prep week, 24/7 during finals week.
• Quiet hours in residence halls begin April 27, with study hours from 9 – 10 p.m.
• Prep week testing centers are by appointment. During finals week, testing centers are walk-in only.

3. Take a break from studying with free events on campus

• Cy’s Finals Frenzy

April 28 – 30 Memorial Union

• Hosted by the Division of Student Affairs, CY’s Finals Frenzy will feature a variety of activities and events to help students prepare, relax and fuel up for the week of finals ahead.

• Barks at Parks

April 29 – May 3,  Noon – 3 p.m. Rotunda of Parks Library

• Therapy dogs, massages, origami, coloring pages and puzzles.

• Student Union Board Build Your own Mental Health kit

Wednesday, April 24, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Maintenance Shop, Memorial Union

• Choose from a variety of stress-relieving items, create your own kit.

4. Secure a good study spot.

• Don’t forget to reserve study rooms ahead of time. Remember, quiet spaces and cozy corners are great for focus.

Take it from the students – check out the best study spaces on campus.