Exams. Are. Stressful. There’s no denying it. With the assessments underway, we are here to help make sure you keep your cool this exam season.
Here are a few things to remember over the next few weeks:
Work out the basics:
The date, time and location of your exams, how the marks are allocated and how much you have to learn for each one. Once you’ve got a plan together it will be easier to get on with a task without procrastinating.
Remember not to set yourself ridiculous goals like learn an entire module in a few hours, instead try and break up your workload into small, more manageable chunks. If you give yourself too much to do in a day you are just setting yourself up for disappointment and future burnout.
Think about when and where you work best. Not everyone is a morning person and sometimes it’s hard to be productive in the evening. Try to find both a time and a space that works for you and is comfy, quiet and devoid of any distractions, or if the weather’s nice why not sit outside?
Don’t be put off by other people:
Remember, progress is still progress, even if it’s different than somebody else’s. So, avoid listening to friends who are saying they’re doing huge amounts of revision. One of the main causes of exam stress is comparing yourself to others. You could discuss with your parents or partner what they are expecting you to achieve. Families with steep or unrealistic expectations will just add unnecessary pressure. It’s helpful to let them know what you have the capacity to achieve and to insist that the best way to get there is to have their support not pressure.
It’ll all be okay in the end:
Ultimately, remember that exams aren’t everything. Whatever your results, you can still be successful in life afterwards. Employers don’t just look at your exam scores; they are just as interested in your attitude, your transferable skills and how you get on with other people. The results you receive do not define you or diminish your future successes.
Once you’ve done an exam, not to overthink it. There’s nothing you can do about it now, and worrying won’t change your grade.
A bit of extra pressure can sometimes be a good thing; it can give you the kick you need to stop procrastinating and get on with your revision or start writing that essay. Stress is often an integral part of the process. The important thing to remember is that the stress you are feeling doesn’t get to a point where you find it overwhelming.
Not coping? Speak to someone sooner rather than later:
If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, or if you are worried about a fellow student who is struggling with thoughts of suicide, you can contact PAPYRUS’s suicide prevention helpline, HOPELINE247 for advice and support. You can get in touch with HOPELINE247 from 9AM to midnight, seven days a week, on 0800 068 414, text 07860 039967 or email pat@papyrus-uk.org
The Student Room also provides a variety of fantastic blogs, advice and support for those struggling with their mental health whilst at university. Click here for more information.
Best of luck with your exams: look after yourself, check in on your friends and remember, try to keep your cool!
