Acing exams with dedicated preparations

When the exams near, there is usually a lot of stress and anxiety flying around.

While some amount of stress is needed to keep you on your toes, too much of it can be debilitating.

If you don’t manage your stress fluctuations well, it will get in the way of your preparation, ultimately leading to a breakdown on the day of your exam. 

So, take a moment and plan for your D-day to pass out with flying colours. Here are some exam-stress busters: 

Organise study material in a study area – gather all your notes and make sure they correspond to the topics in your course outline. Avoid clutter in your study area. 

If you’ve missed any lectures, borrow copies of the notes from another student. Check that you have copies of any extra readings or handouts given out in classes.

Choose a quiet place for study where you won’t be easily distracted. Make yourself comfortable so you can concentrate. 

Ensure the study area is well-lit and properly ventilated.

Prepare well

Follow the mantra ‘Read, revise and rejoice.’ It is a perfect method for groundwork.

Devise a timetable for your subjects, lessons to be learnt and stick to it with preset hours for meticulous revisions.
Be dedicated and avoid all external disturbances during study time.

Set clear priorities and work on the most important and difficult subjects first.

Feeling prepared and being in control is the best gift you can give yourself as you get ready to write exams.

Take breaks

Studying for hours together can be taxing. Your mind as well as body deserves a break in between such intensive sessions.
After every hour, do take a 15-20 minutes break. Go for a brisk walk, sip some fresh fruit juice, exercise a bit, listen to music or play with your pet.

These intermissions will get you refreshed and charged up for the next study plan.

Form a study group

Studying in a group allows you to clarify your doubts and solve problems together especially in mathematical and technical subjects.

Another thing you could do is to work on previous question papers together and frame relevant answers.

Circulate the solved answers among all. This sort of study leads to healthy competition, motivating you to do better.

Get enough sleep

Working late into the night for an exam is stressful. What more, you will wake up feeling lethargic the next morning.
Studying in the early hours of the day is perfect for maximum retainment.

Remember, your body needs 7-8 hours sleep for an active mind.

Always study in advance and avoid any late-night sessions prior to the actual exam day. 

Wholesome diet

Ensure you switch to a nourishing diet. Avoid fatty, starchy, oily, sugary and spicy food.

They will make you drowsy and lazy. Consume a lot of fresh salads, fruits and nuts rich in proteins, minerals and antioxidants.

Such nutritious foods helps you enhance your memory power also.

More importantly, have a fixed time for intake of small meals in between to boost your energy. 

On the day of your exam, have a healthy moderate breakfast and avoid caffeinated drinks.

Try to do something relaxing for the last hour before the exam. Take in deep breaths to avoid anxiety.

Pray and meditate for 10 minutes before start of the paper. Avoid last-minute cramming as it could cloud your ability to remember the overall concepts.

  Focus on writing and finishing the paper in time and give a final look through the paper after completion.

Don’t panic or worry even if a question seems tough. Just write what you know and give your best.

Avoid futile discussions on comparisons of answers after exams.

Believe in your ability and channelise your energy towards the preparation for next exam.