As the countdown begins...

Exam Tips

With less than a fortnight left for most competitive examinations, many students find themselves weighed down by expectations.

Comparisons, parental expectations and peer pressure are major concerns for students attempting their entrance exams. These concerns bring students down, leading to severe examination stress.

The term ‘exam stress’ can be broadly defined as a feeling of anxiety over one’s performance in the exams, the results and reaction of parents and friends; all weigh upon students to create exam stress.



In this article I would like to give students those last minutes tricks, those do’s and don’ts that will help them perform better.

Do past papers – as many as you can lay your hands on:

Those of you who are preparing for CET/AIEEE can take a crash course for better revision of topics or solve one paper per day. Take as many mock tests as you can as this will help you manage time.

Maintain a regular sleep pattern

It’s very important that you set your bio-clock according to your exam timing, so that both your body and mind are active and in sync. Last minute cramming may be your style of studying, but please don’t do it at the cost of a good night’s sleep. A regular seven hours of sleep is mandatory for the body to function well. Also, sleep at a regular time; don't alter your sleeping cycle.

Eat healthy

A healthy diet of green leafy vegetables and fresh fruits will help you stay alert. Avoid carbonated drinks and do not overdo the caffeine. Now that we’re well into summer, the mercury has started spiking in many parts of the country. Ensure you’re studying in a cool environment and don’t forget to sip on water and other fluids to stay hydrated. Avoid falling sick — a scenario you certainly don’t want to be in during your exams. Avoid eating things that do not suit your body type. Eat lighter meals and at smaller intervals to stay fresh and focused.

Advice for parents

Be a support system. Your support will definitely help your children to cope with exam stress as well as help them to do well in the exams. Be available to your children; Reassure them that you are concerned about their welfare more than the results. Try to keep them away from any family distractions like guests at home or any problems that can affect their concentration.

Stress-busters

To prevent mental fatigue, take a short break as soon as you notice that your mind is losing concentration. Stick to activities that do not break your study continuum during these breaks. Chat with a friend, take a walk. Avoid television and loud music. This is because instead of refreshing your mind, TV tends to dull your senses. The best way out is to exercise or play a sport at some point in your day. It’ll be a welcome distraction and help you feel refreshed enough to hit those books again. It is important to relax. Your mind and body perform at their best only if you get adequate rest.

The last 24 hours

* Pack all your books and keep them aside. Do not read any new material. Avoid last minute reading.

* Organise everything you need for the exam, like your hall ticket, stationary, etc.,

* Go to bed early.

* Feel good and confident.

* Wake up early and be fresh.

* Reach the exam hall half an hour early. Relax and chat with your friends.

After the examinations

Indulging in post-mortems and comparisons with others is completely left to how an individual takes it. Review what went well in your overall approach, before and during the examination including the way you handled anxiety. Aim to improve upon that in the next examination. If all your exams are over celebrate and enjoy. If you still have a few more entrance exams to write, relax for a day from studies and then get back to your routine fresh and more positive.

In a nutshell

* Be committed
* Plan your time effectively
* Remember to always encourage yourself for every effort you have made to better your grades.
* Do not be discouraged by failure, immediately start working on your weak areas.
* Stay healthy and relaxed.
* Have a positive attitude towards your goal and be responsible for whatever you undertake.

Remember that there are NO short cuts to success. Don’t be lazy. Success does not favour those who do not aim and work hard for it. Do your part and for sure you will be ready for any kind of exam out there. After all, success will be right at your fingertips if you choose to seize the moment! And yes, lots of luck with those exams.

(The writer is founder, Ace Creative Learning)