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Tips for conquering exam stress

Exam time is coming

With exams just around the corner, it is important to know how to properly deal with the stress that comes along with exams. Listed below are some tips to make studying and completing exams a breeze and maybe even fun! There will also be a list of common feelings that may arise during exam time.

Common feelings caused by exams and how to deal with them

Stress

Stress is one of the most common feelings felt during exam time. Do not worry this is a normal feeling and you are not alone.

How can I minimize my stress? Try taking a break!

  • Did you know that your brain actually works best when you take breaks? Taking breaks surprisingly enough should be a strategy that you add to your study schedule. Set a timer, study a certain subject for one hour, then when your timer goes off, TAKE A BREAK. You have earned this break so enjoy it. Your brain will thank you. If you are the type of person who will be worried that your break will be too long or that you will get side-tracked, set another timer. When the timer goes off, resume studying.
  • Enjoy time with friends and family- Sometimes even studying with friends and family can reduce stress. Have your family members or friends quiz you/ask questions about the material you may not understand, maybe they do!
  • Get some fresh air and go for a walk. If you feel yourself getting overwhelmed or stressed, shut your book and step outdoors, or go for a walk. Either activity will give your brain a chance to reset and will allow you to be able to resume studying

Feeling in a time crunch

When you are studying for exams it is common to feel like you are in a “time crunch” and that there is no way you will ever have enough time to study for each course.

How can I minimize this feeling? Make a schedule! Write out the days of the week. On each day, write out a task list of what needs to get done each day. Make it realistic and do not overload yourself! Make sure you include times as well as prior commitments. When you complete each task, cross it off! Crossing things off on a list feels very rewarding!

Fatigue

Fatigue is a common feeling during exams. This is typically caused by brain exhaustion and lack of sleep. Getting enough sleep is one of the most important things you can do during exams. Teenagers/adolescents actually require 8-10 hours per sleep a night in order to get a good night’s rest. However, many do not get anywhere near this amount of sleep. Not getting enough sleep can cause a lack of ability to concentrate, forgetfulness, as well as many other things.

How to get to sleep earlier:

  • Avoid the use of any type of electronic device before sleeping- the light that reflects off of electronic devices makes it very hard for your brain to fully shut down and allow itself to sleep
  • Do not have a nap during the day that is more than a half-hour. A nap for more than 30 minutes can affect your ability to get to sleep at night. However, naps for 30 minutes or less are ok and encouraged!
  • FUN FACT*: Sleeping helps your brain retain the information that you studied!

Useful links with more tips and information on how to get through exams