Everyone has this familiar feeling of butterflies fluttering inside stomach whenever there is an exam round the corner. However, managing this jittery sensation and bringing down the anxiety level are what need to be done before an exam. Naturally, how to prepare for exams is the most common issue that daunts a student.
Since everyone is differently wired, each has his/her own methods and strategies to keep the nerves calm. However, there are a few trustworthy strategies that effectively reduce exam stress for all.
Following are the 5 things to do before every exam which are guaranteed to fetch good results:
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Plan well ahead:
You know your exams are coming. Do not let it knock at your door when you first open your books. Being systematic and planning well ahead is the single most important attribute of exam preparation. Check the syllabus, point out the important chapters/ topics/ theorems/ graphs/ figures that need your extra attention. Make a timetable and follow it. Some topics need more time than others. Space out your timetable accordingly. You don’t need to study whole day, give yourself some free time to unwind.
- Study:
There are a few study tips for exams which are bound to give you positive outcome. Learn the topics thoroughly. If you can cover the whole syllabus, it will bring you much needed confidence and down your stress level to several notches. To tackle difficult concepts, try to jot down the keywords of the topic you just learned, or, make a flowchart of a process. Solve previous year’s papers.
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Stay focused:
You need to concentrate on studies during exams. Studying for 45-60 minutes sessions with short breaks in between instead of long hours of cramming sessions will help you to stay focused. Switching on a soothing instrumental music while solving sums or writing notes help in staying attentive. Try to incorporate a few minutes of warming up exercises into your routine. Exercise will increase blood flow and oxygen supply to your brain reducing stress level during exams. Too much of diversion through social media, television soaps etc will negatively affect your concentration.
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Have a healthy meal and a good sleep on the night before exam:
Have a healthy, balanced meal the night before your test. Avoid spicy and oily food which may result in flatulence and hamper your sleep. You may have a bar of chocolate, which has been proved to boost one’s mood.
You need to have a good night’s sleep. A well-rested brain will work more positively under exam stress. Try to have a look on the most important topics just before going to bed, for those will be retained by the brain most efficiently.
- Be confident:
You have prepared well, studied hard, now it is time to perform. Glance through a few important points if necessary. Keep your goal reasonable, do not try to compare yourself with others. Keep your calm and take a few deep breaths. This will help you to reduce stress during exam. Do not discuss too much with your batch mates on the day of exam. It may increase your stress level and negatively impact your confidence.
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