From the little I have studied about poker tournaments, I think the key to doing well in final tables is to be very observant to detect who is more reserved and who is willing to stretch to get their chips in. The final table is something else and it most likely would need a re-strategy.
I don't panic when the final tables approach. It is the time that I just play solid poker the most. I don't take unnecessary risks. Rather, I would be patient and always wait for strong spots. I always pay attention to how everyone else is playing when I am at final table. And then, I would slowly make my adjustments.
