Exams Are Not The End Of The World
Tags: Exam Preparation, Exam, Pressure, Exam Stress, Stress

Exam Stress

Exam stress or general stress can be tough. Balancing our education and having a life can be tricky at times, let alone having to deal with stress, anxiety or panic that exams can cause. For some of us, exams can be such a breeze that we could ace an exam with our eyes closed. But for the rest of us, sweaty palms, headaches, and fidgeting is just a part of the exam process, and that nothing is more impossible than sitting down and revising. One thing that we should all remember; exams are not the end of the world.

Reasons

“Why do people experience exam stress?” A general question among teenagers. It could be that some of us feel that we need to live up to our parents’ unrealistic expectations. If you can, try to discuss with your parents what they are expecting you to achieve because it will just add unnecessary pressure. It is helpful to let them know what you think you have the capacity to achieve, and to insist that the only way to achieve it is to have their support. Another reason could be that some of us face difficulty in learning the material required. If this is the case, always remember that you can ask for help, whether it would be from a teacher, friend, sibling, or parent. Talk through your concerns with them. They are likely to have gone through similar things as you and suggest helpful ways for you to do better.

Suggestions When Studying

Whenever we study, we always try to find the best way to work. It all matters about what type of person each of us are. Some of us like to sit in a quiet place without distractions, study with music blasting in our ears or revise over the material in a café with our friends. Whichever type of person you may be, always remember that planning of what you want to work on in each study session always helps. Also, remember to keep focused and not worry about other things that can distract you easily.

Tips

Also, something that many of us forget to do when we are concentrating hard; Take a break! Never forget to let yourself have some time to breathe in between. Studying non-stop makes us agitated, moody, and adds on to the stress we already face from the exams. During our breaks from studying, trying to do something productive or something we enjoy can benefit us a lot. To calm down from stress, reading a book, watching movies and TV shows, or just listening to music can help. To improve concentration, eating nutritious snacks and having a well-balanced diet can help drastically. To make us more productive while revising, exercising can boost our mood like going out for a walk or run, heading to the gym or swimming pool, or meditating.

Preparing for Exam Day

The nights before exam days are usually stressful. We try to finish all our work by cramming last minute, finish preparing our work, run around getting things organized. Doing all this just adds to the pressure that we face during our exams. The nights before should be the time when we study less, relax, and just take a breath. The exam will be tomorrow and all we need to do now is pray we studied enough, get a goodnight sleep, and wake up with a positive mindset. In the morning, eat a nutritious breakfast, arrive there early, and walk into the exam with confidence. Do not worry about what others may be doing at that time, focus on your exam, monitor your time, understand what each question is asking and always remember to remain calm and to not stress. After all, it is just one exam.

After the exam, do something you enjoy rewarding yourself for your hard work. It is important to remember that we have a life outside of exams. Try to make a list of everything you enjoy and find time to do it all. By doing this, it can reduce your stress levels, improve your mood, and help you feel more refreshed and relaxed. There is absolutely no need to feel guilty for taking some you-time to unwind and relieve yourself of the stress. You are obligated to have a social life and interests outside studying. Never forget to have fun. Exams are not our whole life.