Do you often find yourself inventing a litany of reasons not to complete assignments until the very last minute? With summer just around the corner, scraping through the last few weeks of school seems more difficult than ever. Whether you are doing some last-minute cramming for finals or completing end-of-year assignments, this article supplies a surplus of ways for you to stay motivated in the last few weeks before summer!

• Planner: Using a planner can be extremely helpful for ensuring that you complete all of your assignments by the due date. They can be used to help you organize all aspects of your academic life, from your weekly schedule to any upcoming exams. Having a physical system of organization like a planner can help reduce stress around school and assist you in staying motivated before summer. 
• Take Breaks: While you might be inclined to try and blow through all of your schoolwork in one sitting, you might be more productive if you take breaks between assignments. Giving yourself short, fifteen-minute breaks between longer periods of work can maximize your focus during the time you are working, further, allowing you to work more efficiently. This trick will keep you both more motivated and focused when completing assignments.
• Put the Phone Away: As summer grows closer and friends begin posting about vacation, the temptation to scroll on social media rather than study for exams is more overwhelming than ever before. With that in mind, keeping your phone out of sight when working is a clever way to stay concentrated on the various tasks at hand. You can do this by having a friend or family member hold onto your phone as you work or even leave your phone under your bed. Keeping your phone out of view will minimize the amount of distractions you face while doing homework, because as they say, out of sight- out of mind!

• Work with Friends: Forming study groups is an excellent way to ensure that you are prepared for upcoming exams. This study tactic prompts you to discuss the exam topic at length with your friends and provides an opportunity for you to evaluate your own understanding of the subject. Additionally, studying with friends empowers you to hold each other accountable and make certain that everyone is on task. 

• Journaling: As the final days of the school year approaches, it is especially important to focus on your mental health. One great way to have a moment to center yourself before a long school day is by investing in a journal. You might check in with yourself by noting your feelings, or even taking time to jot down what you are grateful for each day. This healthy habit can prevent burnout and inspire motivation to last you throughout the end of the school year!

• Self-care: Amidst the constant pressure of school and the stress of completing end-of-year homework, making time to do self-care is absolutely imperative. You might do self-care by spending time with friends, taking an “everything shower,” or even simply listening to a favorite song on the way to school. Making time to indulge in self-care can spark joy and further motivate you in your academic pursuits.

Overall, as summer grows closer, these strategies will surely help you stay motivated through the end of the school year!