With finals looming, students are scurrying with last-minute maneuvers to improve their grades.

Whether they’re begging for extra credits, pounding out that last paper, or cramming for exams, stress will probably take its toll.

To help students combat stress, maintain their health and ultimately improve their grades, Oxnard College’s English teacher and stress coach, Margaret M offers her top nine tips to help students manage stress.

“The easiest way to unstress is to unplug the TV, radio, CD, MP3, etc.” said M. “We are all over-stimulated by culture, ads, and input, so our minds cannot rest.”

To manage stress, she suggests that students practice any or all of the following tips as listed in the sidebar.

“Just pick one of them and do it,” says M. “You will feel better.” M also suggested that counselors and tutoring centers are a good choice when students find themselves in need of help. Whether it is about grades, homework, or families, or personal life, counselors are a good source of help to reduce stress.

To aid students in preparing for their tests, Margaret M also recommends that students begin their studies early, rather than waiting until the last minute. Students should lay out a realistic plan, with enough breaks in between to keep them from getting too tired. On the day of the exam, students should get up early to avoid rushing, give themselves enough time to eat breakfast, and also remember to bring with them everything they need, including extra pens and pencils.