Getting good grades are important but in the long run they won’t matter as much as you think they would. Many students suffer from exam stress, but don’t drive yourself crazy getting those A’s. Here’s a list to help you deal effectively with exam stress:
Make a time table
Making a time table will help you avoid last minute panic. Write down the number of topics you will revise each day so you have a set goal to achieve. Don’t pile up too much workload otherwise your brain won’t be able to function well. Also don’t start revising a week in advance, try to give yourself at least a few months to cover your syllabus.
Make notes and practice past papers
Don’t just skim through the books and memorize topics, instead write down things and make notes. Making notes helps more in memorizing than actually reading them. Also, you most definitely need to practice past papers as they will give you an idea of taking the exam before the actual day.
Practice your speed
The biggest exam woes are students not completing the exam in a given time slot, which is why it is essential that students time themselves while practicing past papers. This will help build speed, get an idea of the exam structure and make you more and more confident of a good grade in the exam.
Sleep well
A lot of people sacrifice their sleep for good grades in exams. This is indeed not a healthy practice as the human body needs at least 8 hours of sleep to function properly. Once you have a timetable set in place, you can sleep at a designated time and wake up early to practice for exams.
Stay away from your phone or TV while revising
Keep your phone, TV and laptop as far as possible from yourself. Checking your phone every 5 minutes to scroll social media or asking your friend what they’ve studied is only going to stress you more. Concentrate on your books, make notes and study hard for good grades.
Take mini breaks
Don’t take 2-3 hour long breaks binge watching shows or chatting to friends. Instead take mini breaks which will ease your mind over exam stress. Breathe and relax. Go take a warm shower or listen to music for a few minutes.
Eat properly
Many people stop eating just because they’re way too stressed over exams. This is absolutely not healthy. Your brain needs food to function well or else you’ll just end up with a headache. Have a protein-rich diet with plenty of milk, eggs, and yogurt to stay full for longer. Also, remember to drink plenty of water. It will keep you feeling awake and fresh.
Stop having caffeine, have juices instead
Many people rely on caffeine to help them stay away during exam nights. Caffeine has a history of bad mood swings in people while also disrupting sleeping patterns. Instead of caffeine, try having herbal teas, apples and water which will keep you healthy and your mind fresh.