Admit it - you've put off all of your summer reading and other work. You spent all summer having fun and helping out, and we support that. That's why we'll give you some tips in case you've found yourself cramming at the last minute.

We don't recommend last-minute studying; the mind absorbs more from the habit and repitition of studying. While it may be too late for that, it's not to late to speed read and stuff your brain in a healthier way.

• Avoid caffeine. It will keep you awake, but it won't keep you focused. Plus, it's not good for your heart. Try eating an apple and drinking a lot of water.
• Lay off the sugar. You need food, but too many sweets make it difficult to concentrate.
• Have a plan. Reduce your stress by setting goals for yourself - a certain number of pages by 3pm, another number by 6pm, etc.
• Take breaks. Make sure the breaks are easy to walk away from (no Facebook, TV, etc.).
• Make use of extra time. Don't be above reading while you wait in line at the store or in the minute or two before classes start.
• Tutor someone else. Teaching another person can help you understand it more.

What can you do?

In the future, remember that repitition is key. Spending 10 minutes every day reading your notes is better than one hour once a week.

Often knowing concepts is better than the intricate details. Try to look at the big picture.

Get a study group together. Make sure they are the right match - people you won't get distracted and goof off with. Try looking outside your circle of friends.

Maybe you're the best at science but you know someone who loves English class. Create a tutoring program where everyone helps each other out.