It’s the middle of the semester, and you’re browsing The Daily Clog instead of studying — again. The semester feels like it’s dragging on, and you have no motivation left to do anything. If this situation sounds all too familiar, you’re stuck in a midterm slump. With spring break just around the corner, it’s time to power through to the finish line. Here are some ways to get out of your midterm slump and be productive again.

Make a plan

A simple way to get back into the groove is to come up with a plan of how you’ll get everything done. Writing down a plan for your work schedule can help you mindlessly get things done throughout the day. There’s no need to worry about what to do next — just follow the plan. It may feel like too much effort to write, but once you do, you won’t have to think about it again.

Start with something low energy

If your problem is that you can’t bring yourself to start anything, why not start with something easy that doesn’t require much thinking on your part? It’ll get you to start on your schoolwork and put you in a mindset that will make working on a harder assignment easier. If it doesn’t, at least you got some work done.

Study with friends

Sometimes studying can be a lonely and boring experience. So, if you don’t think you’ll get too distracted, why not study with friends? You’ll be spending time with friends, and it’ll motivate you to actually study. Teaching your friends a concept is a great way to check your understanding and learn the material. If you enjoy being social, maybe studying (or doing schoolwork) with friends is the way to get out of your slump.

Be strict with yourself

No matter what you do, if you’re going to get out of your slump, you’ll have to be strict with yourself. You have to stop looking at social media and watching YouTube videos. They’ll still be there for you when you’re done with your work. If you really want to get work done, figure out how you’re wasting time and try to avoid it. It’ll be hard, but by doing this, you can brute force your way out of your slump.

Find what makes you motivated

Sometimes, you’re in a rut because nothing is making classwork exciting anymore. Finding what motivates you can bring the excitement back. Be it a reward after finishing an assignment or some interesting facts, make sure to incorporate it into your routine. This way you can make schoolwork something to look forward to and not just a chore.

Semesters can be long and arduous; it can wear a person down. Try to be positive and get your work done. And remember, spring break is coming to reward you for all that hard work.