No matter if you're in elementary school, high school, or university, exams and the stress that comes with them are something every student faces. Even with plenty of study time, it's normal to feel anxious about remembering everything. Most students experience some form of exam-related stress at some point.
Here are some practical tips to help you manage and reduce exam-related stress.
Controlled Breathing
Take a few deep, focused breaths right before your exam. This helps calm your nerves and improves focus. It can be useful to count your breaths using a method like 4-7-11: inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, and exhale for 11 seconds.
Create a Practice Exam
A few days before the exam, ask a friend or family member to quiz you on the material or create a mock test. Time yourself to see how quickly you can answer. This will help you spot areas you need to focus on before the real exam.
Active Thought Control
Focus on positive thoughts and avoid negative self-talk like "I haven't study enough" or "How am i going to do this?". Concetrate on what you know and remind yourself that you will do your best. Phrases like "I will stay focused" or "I have trust in myself" can help you take control of your thoughts and reduce anxiety.
Power Pose
Pick a power pose that makes you feel strong and confident. Once you have found one, strike this pose before stressful situations to boost both your physical and mental strenght. It helps reduce nervousnesss so you can fully focus on the exam.
Mental Preparation
Before the exam, take a moment to imagine yourself in the test room. Picture where you'll be sitting, what's on your desk, and how you'll feel. It's a great way to notice important details and boost your confidence.
Bonus Tip
A study buddy can work wonders when it comes to learning. Going through material together, quizzing each other, or simply keeping each other motivated makes a big difference. In our Home4students residences, it's often easy to find a learning buddy among your dorm mates. Many of our residences also have dedicated study rooms, providing a distraction-free environment. Learning becomes not only easier but also a lot more enjoyable!
With the right preparation and exercises, you can calm your mind and approach exams with a clearer head. We hope these tips for managing exam anxiety right before a test have been helpful.
Good Luck - you've got this! 🍀