As the semester comes to an end, a threat greater than finals looms in the air. No, it’s not that extra five pounds you’ll gain from the bag of candy you just need to have while studying. It’s the dreaded moment when you get the one person you can’t stand in your Secret Santa group. It may feel like a chore to search for a present, but if you can’t figure out how to trade for someone you actually want, Release can help you make the best of it.

1. The “We hang out?” present — If you want to show, or at least pretend, you’re interested in your secretly hated Santa, try getting them a present that proves you guys spend time together. Ever been to a restaurant you like together? Get them a gift card and convince them to take you along. Did you see a movie together once? Buy it for them and stick in a note that says you’ll watch it together (not). Need to go food shopping and want to use their car? Grab a Wegmans gift card and don’t forget to shout “Shopping trip!” when they open it.

2. The “See, I listen!” present — For this present, try to spend a few hours with your holiday shopping nemesis and be sure to listen to every complaint they may have. Whether it’s a lack of coffee in their diet or a book that’s too long, be ready to combat their woes with your holiday cheer. If you still don’t know what to get after your time, socks are always a good option. Everyone complains about a missing sock at some point. Make sure to kill them with kindness with a note that says “So you never run out again!” and they may be able to cover up the disappointment on their face.

3. The “Everything reminded me of you” present — Some people are impossible to shop for. They’re either too picky or totally indecisive, and choosing just one gift seems unrealistic. Still, you don’t want to spend too much on someone you don’t even like. If you’re in a jam, pop into Five Below (where everything really is $5 or less) and buy a few trinkets to throw together. No one needs to know you spent way less than the minimum, and it will be the only time toe socks and a mini candle make sense together.

4. The “It’s from the heart” present — The homemade gift is a time-honored classic, but it may seem a bit too thoughtful for that “friend” you’ve chosen. Still, it gives you more money to spend on yourself during the season of sales. Whip up a batch of homemade cookies and a coupon book to say you really care. Offer to do their laundry or cook them a meal, but don’t forget to sneak in a “study session” coupon if they have good notes for the class you’re failing or a “mall trip” so you have a ride to get gifts for your real friends.