Most students experience anxiety during exam periods due to various reasons such as parental expectations, competition amongst peers, incomplete syllabus, and fear of performing poorly in exams. These factors create immense pressure and tension in students’ minds, and in some cases, situations may worsen. As exams draw closer, the combined effect of these factors can lead to panic, resulting in stress.
To perform better and keep yourself calm and relaxed during exam times, here are a few helpful tips:
1. Start preparing early
According to a survey by India Today, 75% of students who started their preparation at least six months before the board exams felt less stressed than those who started later.
In India, the academic year starts in June/July and the final exams are held in March/April.Â
Therefore, it is important for students to start preparing early, ideally from the beginning of the academic year itself.Â
By doing so, they can cover the syllabus in a timely manner and have ample time for revision before the exams. This will also help them to build their confidence and reduce exam-related stress.
2. Stay positive
Staying positive is crucial for students during exam times as they face a lot of pressure from society and family. In India, academic success is highly valued, and the pressure to perform well in exams can be overwhelming. Therefore, students should stay positive and think positively to avoid negative thinking and anxiety.
According to a survey conducted by the Indian National Crime Records Bureau, student suicides in India have increased by over 50% in the last decade, with exam stress being one of the primary causes. Therefore, it is crucial for Indian students to maintain a positive mindset during exam times.
3. Manage your time
Time management is a crucial factor in exam preparation. Today, students often face the challenge of balancing their studies with other activities such as coaching classes, extracurricular activities, and family commitments. Therefore, it is important for them to plan their day in advance and prioritize their tasks accordingly.
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Often students get stressed when they find they are running short of time. To avoid these situations, their tasks need to be prioritized and categorized according to their needs. A study by SuccessCDs suggested that students should allocate 60% of their time for studying, 20% for revising, 10% for relaxing and 10% for sleeping.
They should allocate enough time for each subject and ensure that they cover all the important topics before the exams.
4. Take breaks
Students often study for long hours without taking proper breaks, which can lead to burnout and reduced productivity. It is important for them to take regular breaks, ideally every hour, to refresh their mind and avoid mental exhaustion. During these breaks, they can engage in activities such as listening to music, taking a short walk, or doing some light stretching exercises.
5. Take proper sleep
Sleep is crucial for academic performance and overall health. Students often sacrifice their sleep to study for exams, which can have a negative impact on their mental and physical health. It is recommended that every child gets at least 6-7 hours of sleep every night to ensure that their brain functions optimally.Â
However, they should avoid oversleeping as it can lead to a waste of time and can turn them lazy. According to a study by BMC Nursing, poor sleep quality was associated with lower academic performance among nursing students in India. Another study by The Economic Times suggested that good sleep stabilizes the hormones of the body that are essential for proper functioning of the body and memory consolidation.
6. Exercise
Exercise is an effective stress-buster and can help students to stay physically and mentally fit during exam preparation. Students should aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes every day, preferably in the morning. They can do activities such as jogging, cycling, or yoga, which are easily accessible and do not require any special equipment.
Exercise always keeps a body active which will lessen the chance of sleep during study. According to India Today, physical exercise can increase blood circulation and oxygen supply to the brain, which can improve mental alertness and concentration. It can also release endorphins, which are natural mood enhancers that can reduce stress and anxiety.
7. Do relaxing activities
Students often face high levels of stress and anxiety during exam preparation, which can affect their mental well-being. Relaxing activities such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help them to calm their mind and stay focused. They can incorporate these activities into their daily routine, preferably in the morning and evening.
According to The Indian Express, relaxation activities can help UPSC aspirants cope with exam stress by calming their nervous system, improving their emotional regulation, enhancing their cognitive function, and increasing their self-confidence.
8. Organize self
Students often face the challenge of managing their study materials such as books, notes, and textbooks. Therefore, it is important for them to keep their study materials organized and easily accessible. They can use tools such as folders, organizers, and digital note-taking apps to stay organized and ensure that they can find what they need quickly and easily.
9. Listen to music
Listening to music during study breaks is an effective way to refresh the mind and reduce stress. According to a study conducted by the Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, listening to music for 30 minutes a day can significantly reduce stress levels in Indian students.
Staying positive and listening to music during study breaks can help students reduce stress and perform better in exams. It is essential to prepare well for exams and focus on strengths rather than weaknesses to achieve success. By following these tips, Indian students can overcome exam stress and achieve academic success
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