Whether it is Junior Certificate, Leaving Certificate or university end of year exams or degree finals, exams can result in a challenging and nervous time no matter how much preparation has been done.
Whilst there’s no magic shortcut to really knowing your stuff apart from putting in the hours revising, make sure you are on your best form to apply the knowledge learnt on exam day by putting worries to one side and embrace the exam knowing you have done all you can.
Some top tips on how to keep on top of the exam period, while remaining calm and focussed are provided by Neil Shah, Stress Management Society, in association with Rescue Remedy:
MANAGE YOUR STUDY TIME
It is important to schedule your work. Draw up a balanced and realistic revision schedule and stick to it.
Studying for long periods of time will not benefit you in the long term as human brains can only maintain concentration for 90 minutes at one time.
Have regular breaks and schedule time to do the things you enjoy.
STOP COMPARING YOURSELF WITH OTHERS
Adopt a revision technique that works for you: Everyone has a different approach to revision.
Choose your own method and find the revision style that suits you.
Some examples are: revising alone in a quiet room, revising with a friend, going to the library, playing music in the background, etc.
MANAGE YOUR STUDY SPACE
Avoid technology, television or social media when you are studying.
Keep your study room clean and clear to avoid distractions.
KEEP A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
Eat right and don’t skip any meals, especially breakfast. Good nutrition fuels your brain as well as your body.
Also make sure you keep hydrated as your brain can only function at its best when hydrated.
Also, engaging in physical activity such as short walks in the park, going to the gym or simply some stretching is the best way to burn off your stress and re-gain focus.
GET SUPPORT
If you feel that you are feeling stressed, allow yourself a break to spend some time with your relatives or your friends.
Some social interaction will take your mind off revision for a while and give you a mental break.
You can then go back to revision feeling reenergised and focused.
