Exams are coming up! 10 Helpful Tips

For those of you who live in the States, the AP exams are only a few weeks away! *gasps* I know, I know. The pervasive feeling of doom that these gruesome assessments bring is enough to drop a heavy blanket of panic across schools nationwide. So, here are a few tips to keep you slim, trim, healthy, and motivated so that you're ready when test day rolls around!

1. To study properly, your fuel must be flawless. You'll feel happier and more energized if you know you've done all you can to eschew stress-gain. Stress-eating is aptly named, but not for the reasons that most claim: eating is stressful, not relaxing. Eating makes you stressed; because it fuels fat, it gives you a reason to be worried. So, stick to super-healthy foods that spark brain function, like arugula, fish, cucumber, watermelon, celery, and others. 
2. Hydrate! if you're feeling sluggish, it's likely because you're dehydrated! No need for a calorific snack- simply sip a 16-oz glass of water when you feel down. One as soon as you wake up will kick-start your metabolism and leave you energized with none of the crash that caffeine provides. 
3. ... But, don't turn your nose up at caffeine. A little caffeine is certainly not a bad thing if it keeps you away from food. However, for your memory it's best that you not exceed 2 cups of coffee a day. Use it wisely and it can be your best friend, but don't let it cut into your sleep time.
4. Sleeeeep. Sleep as much as you possibly can. If you can snag 8-9 hours a night, good for you! However, for most of us, that's simply not possible. Be EFFICIENT during the day so that you have enough time to rest at night.
5. EXERCISE has never been more important. It's absolutely vital that you work out every day during exam season. It will take away stress related to all aspects of your life, from frustration over school to anxiety over weight. It helps you sleep, and most importantly, lose weight. 
6. Study, study, study. Eliminate distractions by studying screen-less: choose a study spot from which you cannot see any screens. Out of sight, out of mind. But, for things that you must use a computer for, install a browser extension like StayFocusd to help your willpower.
7. Wasted time? Nah... Completely block all but one time waster site on your browser, and time-block that one as well. Use an extension such as StayFocusd if your willpower needs a boost. Get away from your screen on your study breaks! Go for a walk, contact a friend, play an instrument, draw, you name it, as long as it's not screen-powered.
8. PLAN. Planing is the most important factor in acing your exams. Make a scedule and block out time for studying and workouts every day to mitigate stress and keep you on top of your game. But, a schedule won't do you any good if you don't STICK TO IT. You MUST stick to your schedule otherwise you will lose your self-legitimacy and than paf! willpower's gone, motivation's gone, ana's gone, you're worthless. DO EET.
9. Motivate. If you can't help feeling apathetic, then bribe yourself with a non-food treat if you score A's (or 5's on the AP's, or 800's on the SAT subject tests...). Got a 100 on your English exam? BAM! New bikini! If the score itself isn't great enough, you've also got a cross-motivator to help promote your weight loss!
10. Don't despair. Don't panic. Don't despair. Don't get caught in a self-pity loop. Why? BECAUSE THAT SHITE NEVER HELPED ANYONE DO ANYTHING WORTHWHILE. Think, how can I make this situation better while advancing myself toward my long-term goals? And if you follow thorough with your proposed solution, then heyo! You've solved your problem!