As the end of the school year comes closer and closer I've been finding it harder to focus in class and find the motivation to study for my finals.

Instead, I find my mind wandering to all of the things I would rather be doing at the time like frolicking outside in the sunshine or watching TV.

I'm sure I'm not the only one at school who is having these problems, so I searched the Internet for some handy tips to help you stay awake or stay focused while studying:

1. Turn off the TV or radio.

While I agree with turning off the TV, I actually find it easier to study (and stay awake) when I have music playing. While this is completely based on personal preference, if you need help finding good music to listen to, look at Katy Metcalf's recent blog entry.

2. Turn the temperature down.

Although I don't actually turn the temperature down when I study, I have found that I focus more when it's cold because I'm not comfortable enough to fall asleep. Then again, you might end up sick if it's too cold.

3. Take a short nap.

I have never tried this because I know that if I go to sleep then I'm never going to wake up again and resume my work. But if you think you are the kind of person who can sleep for half an hour and then wake up and continue studying, this is probably a really good technique to use.

4. Drink lots of water.

I know it's weird, but this actually works for me. The logic behind this is that the more water you drink, the more you have to go the bathroom, the more you have to go to the bathroom, the more you have to move, and the more you move, the more awake you are. Get it? It's kind of like an endless cycle.

5. Take short 10- to 15-minute breaks.

This is really useful as long as you don't get distracted and turn your 15-minute break into an hourlong break.

Good luck in your studying, and I hope you put some of these tips to use. Just remember, only one and a half weeks left!