Exam season can be a challenging time for students, especially those balancing academic demands, part-time work, and social commitments. At ISH, we understand how overwhelming this period can be. That’s why we’re sharing some tips to help you manage stress, stay productive, and take care of your well-being, during this busy period. A well-structured plan can reduce anxiety and help you stay on track. Break your content up into manageable chunks, allocate specific time slots for each subject, and include breaks in your schedule.
Plan and Prioritise
- Create a Study Schedule: Organise your tasks by creating a study schedule that balances study time with breaks. Focus on high-priority topics first and break down your workload into smaller, manageable goals. A clear plan helps you stay on track and reduces last-minute panic
- Use Tools: Utilise planners, sticky notes, apps such as Notion or Asana to keep track of your progress and ensure you don’t overlook important topics.
Stay Active and Rested
-
Eat Well: Fuel your brain with nutritious foods like fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Avoid too much caffeine or sugar, which can lead to energy crashes.
-
Sleep is Key: Aim for at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Sleep helps consolidate memory and enhances problem-solving skills.
-
Stay Active: Incorporate light exercise, such as yoga or walking, to reduce stress and boost your mood.
Take Regular Breaks
-
The Pomodoro Technique: Study for 25-30 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. After four cycles, take a longer break of 15-30 minutes.
-
Unplug: Use breaks to step away from screens. Stretch, hydrate, or enjoy some fresh air.
Practise Stress Reduction Techniques
-
Deep Breathing: Simple breathing exercises can calm your mind and reduce anxiety.
-
Meditation and Mindfulness: Apps like Headspace or Calm offer guided sessions tailored to stress relief.
-
Journaling: Write down your thoughts and worries to help declutter your mind.
Seek Support
-
Connect with Peers: Study with friends to share resources and motivate each other.
-
Talk it Out: Don’t hesitate to reach out to family, mentors, or counsellors if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Stay Positive
-
Focus on Effort, Not Perfection: Remember, it’s okay to make mistakes. What matters is giving your best effort.
-
Visualise Success: Spend a few moments each day imagining yourself succeeding—it’s a powerful motivator.
Avoid Procrastination
-
Start Small: Tackling a small, manageable task can build momentum for larger ones.
-
Limit Distractions: Designate a quiet, clutter-free study area and keep your phone out of reach if possible
Celebrate Small Wins
- Reward yourself after completing a study session or mastering a difficult topic. Treat yourself to something you enjoy—it can be as simple as a favourite snack or an episode of your favourite show.
Exam stress is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. With thoughtful planning, self-care, and support, you can navigate this challenging time with resilience and confidence. Remember, exams are just one chapter in your life, they don’t define your entire journey.
Have you also read these articles?