It might be true for you that ice cream helps to calm those nerves down for about 15mins. But you know that once you return to face the piles of books and notes, the stress will come rushing back.
You don’t have much time left, and you’ve got loads to cover. You want to start but the stress is killing you. What’s a nerve-wracked student to do?
All’s not lost. If you want to beat exam stress in a jiffy, here’s stuff you can do right now.
GET A STUDY GROUP
Look for friends who are totally determined to get some studying done. It’s great to have company to discuss and clarify questions as a group. Choose a place that’s generally quiet and conducive to studying.
PLAN YOUR HOURS
Perhaps you’re stressed because you don’t know how much time you have and how you can use it best. Here’s how you can start getting some control. Take time out now to look at how much time you’ve left and be realistic about what you can and cannot cover for the exams. Prioritise the things you need to study and leave the least important things for the last. Oh, don’t forget to plan for sleep and rest as well! Which leads us to:
SLEEP - NO KIDDING!
What? With so little time? Well, it might seem like a waste of time now, but research tells us that the brain processes and organises information while you sleep. That means you’re going to be thinking better, feeling fresher and getting smarter – just by taking that nap. Oh, and do try to get at least 7 hours of good sleep!
EAT LIKE A KING (OR QUEEN)
Stay away from junk food and heavy meals – they make you less energetic. Try having some whole grain-based meals or salads that are easy on your digestive system and keep your energy high.
GET IT OVER AND DONE WITH
There’s not a lot more you can do apart from putting in your best effort. Once you’ve checked your pens, calculator and made those second checks that the dictionary is in the bag, relax. Rest in the fact that you’ve put in all you sensibly had. Hey, so what if your study method isn’t perfect now? Don’t fret. Keep a positive mind about it and make a promise to yourself that you’ll prepare better next time.
We know exams are never going to be easy, but no one said it has to be painful – in fact, if you pull this off right, it could even be fun. Take these simple steps first and we wish you the best for your exams!
