Exam times are difficult times and it can get stressful. However, prior planning and systematic approach for preparation can help you manage the stress levels while getting you there with confidence!
Ample time for studying
Leaving it until the last moment is dangerous. There is a tendency amongst students to leave it all for the last minute, but it’s certainly not the best way to prepare for exams. A timetable charting out the schedule of your study time for each subject works wonder. Start by jotting down the number of tests you will write and the days the exams are scheduled. Once done arrange your subjects and time of study accordingly. Some subjects need more devotion and preparation time than others do. Strike a balance and design the timetable.
Organize your study space
Is light in your room enough? Do you feel comfortable sitting on the chair? Have you kept the computer games away from your sight?
It is important to get rid of all diversions, and ensure comfort in order to focus completely on studies. This can vary from one student to another, while some prefer complete silence; many need background music to focus. Impeccably uncluttered ambience is a must for some to concentrate, while some minds work best in a more chaotic space. Figure out what works for you, and get it right.
Pictures have a great appeal on the human mind
Visual aid helps immensely while preparing a lesson and more so while revising. A smart way to approach a new topic is to first write down everything you know about it – following which you can highlight the new areas and information. As the exam date draws close zero down the notes to one-pagers with mostly diagrams. The brief layout will help you to bring to mind the details you need to know for the exam.
Solve test papers from past years
This is a time honoured method and works wonder for all students. This helps you in a number of ways- helps you be acquainted with the format, helps you have an idea of the type of questions from the respective chapters, solving many such papers increases chances of getting known questions in the exams and helps you organise your timing for each section of the paper and also develops the ability to finish on time, keeping scope for revising.
Explain your answers to others
Parents and siblings can be of great help here. Try and explain a topic to them. This helps you to comprehend the thing better and identify the areas that need your attention.
Groups study with friends
Schedule a study session at a friend’s place. You can share questions, doubts and answers each others’ benefit. However, make you that the gathering does not turn out to be a party and you focus can on your study requirement. This is considered to be a very useful way to challenge yourself.
Take a break
Studying for very long hours creates fatigue and the receptive power of the brain gets reduced. Studies reveal that in order to retain information for a long time regular breaks a must.
Study times and routines also vary from one student to another. For those who prefer the morning slot can start early and take a break during lunch. Those whose minds are more receptive at nigh can plan their break in the morning and settle down for long hours from evening to mid night.
A good dash of sunshine is very good for your health. So do not stay holed up in your room the whole day; vitamin D is vital for the human brain.
Eat carefully
Your food intake can affect your energy levels and ability to focus. It is sensible to stay away from fast food during exam preparation. A good amount of nutritious food increases concentration and builds memory power. Your diet should include fish, nuts, seeds, yogurt and fibrous fruits.
Be ready for the exam day
Planning for the exam day should begin a day earlier. Keep everything handy the previous night. Make the list of things you will need to buy at least a week ahead and procure them quickly. Check the rules and organise your mode of transport well in advance. Be clear of the direction to reach the exam centre.
Be sure to reach before time as arriving late can create stress and hence impact your performance. Going to the exam centre with friends who are careful about time, helps in relaxing.
Drink plenty of water
Finally drink a lot of water. A well hydrated body and brain is vital for working at their best. 5-6 litres of water daily will keep you fine and kicking.
Good luck!