Getting ready for exams
Does the thought of sitting for an exam:
- make you feel excited?
- make you feel energised?
- encourage you to perform at your best?
- make you think of success?
- freak you out?
Most students can identify with at least some of these reactions. Research indicates that optimum performance in exams is obtained when students experience medium or manageable levels of anxiety. However, too much anxiety in relation to exams can inhibit concentration and memory and, in its most severe form, cause panic attacks.
Quick Tips
It is important not to give up when you feel anxious! Most people experience some degree of anxiety when faced with an exam. The students who perform better tend to cope with anxiety in more productive ways including:
- Developing a good study routine and adequate preparation leading up to the exam.
- Ensuring a balanced lifestyle with leisure activities built into your timetable. Also make sure you get adequate sleep and eat well.
- Thinking positively and challenging any negative thoughts you might have about your ability to perform in exams.
- Introducing relaxation exercises into your daily routine to enable you to easily draw on these techniques in the exam.
Exam confidence is healthy. It works for you and provides you with heightened awareness, which will enhance your ability to do well in exams. The key factors are to be prepared, to practise relaxation daily (so that your body can relax on demand) and to think positively.
Getting help
