Overcoming Exam Anxiety

27 october 2023, 12:08 PM

Overcoming Exam Anxiety

There are some useful techniques to overcome exam anxiety and boost your performance on exam day. Being a little nervous before an exam is quite a natural occurrence in every student's life and can help stimulate your mind and concentrate your attention. However, extreme exam anxiety such as feelings of worry and low self-esteem can hinder your exam-taking performance and make you feel pathetic. Exam anxiety can affect anyone. Even the most confident person who has to take exams for job promotion or certification feels a bit nervous and uneasy. Here are some tips that may help you to overcome your exam anxiety:

> Start your preparations early: Starting your preparations early is one of the best strategies to tackle exam anxiety. The benefit of starting your preparations in advance is that you have a sufficient amount of time to study thoroughly and will not have to fret about last-minute stress. Make a study routine and follow it regularly. Take short breaks in between your study sessions so that you’ll be able to stay focused and keep you from burnout.

> Study efficiently: Your institute may offer coaching classes to enhance your study skills or other resources that aid you in learning various study methods and exam-taking techniques. You’ll feel more calm and relaxed if you study systematically and practice the topics that will be on the exam. 

> Stay fit and healthy: The biggest concern for every student is bombing their exams or having a poor academic background that they often fail to take care of their health. Neglecting your health will not only pose a threat to your body but your grades will suffer as well especially when going through such fierce periods of learning. Make sure to get enough fresh air, work out daily, and avoid consuming alcohol or caffeine. Also, do remember to eat healthier snacks or brain foods so that your mind stays at its best state during this time.

> Seek help: Exam anxiety is not to be taken lightly. If it gets too overwhelming, talk to your family, or peers, or seek professional help. They are the only ones who can give you the best support system and advice. Don’t shy away from asking for help. Many students go through this phase before an exam, and it’s important to understand that you’re not alone.

> Get enough sleep:  Getting a good sleep before the exam is necessary for your mind to perform well. Lack of sleep can make you feel nervous and uneasy. Avoid sleeping late before the exam as this can increase your anxiety level. Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep.