If you read this blog regularly, you know that we're fans of keeping a planner, making a homework schedule, and working ahead so that you always have plenty of time to finish assignments and prepare for your big tests.

But we also know that doesn't always happen. In fact, some of you are die-hard procrastinators. Maybe you love the adrenaline rush that kicks in when you have to write a 5-page paper in one night. Or you always mean to start your work early, but for some reason you don't. Or maybe you just think that a good night's sleep is overrated. In the end, it doesn't matter what reason you have for procrastinating. The fact is that time is running short, you've got a project due or a test to take in a few hours, and you are stressed. Here are a few tips to help you get through it:

We received the following email from a Sparkler looking to have a little fun while she studies:

hey, i was wondering if you could give me some tips on different methods of studying. i need to raise my GPA as soon as possible and i am a complete procrastinator. if you have any "fun" study methods please let me know! thank you ps. excuse the poor grammar skills.

This week, I’m addressing some reader comments prompted by a recent post on dealing with stress.  This one comes from Sparkler amaryllismoon:

I'm obsessed with maintaining my average (especially since it's my junior year and I am trying to get higher up in class rank... I'm only number 5 and I'd like to at least be number 4 or 3 this year). The thing is, I will put stuff off until the last minute, which is not good at ALL. Any way to help me concentrate?

Ah, yes, the life of the procrastinator. No matter your good intentions to get an early start, you always find yourself making a strong pot of coffee and bracing yourself for an all nighter before the exam or paper due date. For many procrastinators, this approach can lead to success. Maybe that deadline breathing down your neck gives you the shot of adrenaline you need to do a great job; in fact, I would guess this is the case for amaryllismoon, who is in the top ten of her class ranking.