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Tips to optimise your exam and study performance

Deakin Medical Centre: Health and wellbeing for academic success

  • Sleep well
    Try and maintain your normal sleep routine, including number of hours. Adequate sleep will enhance your energy levels, ability to concentrate and to recall information and study quality.

  • Eat healthily
    Eat breakfast and don't skip meals. Eat helpful snack food including fruit, wholemeal sandwiches, low fat muesli bars, smoothies, dried fruit and nuts, vegetables and dip, wholemeal / low fat cakes and slices.

  • Drink water
    Attempt to drink one to two litres of water every day. Avoid excess tea / coffee and cola based drinks. Although a mild stimulant, caffeine actually impairs your study ability.

  • Take rest breaks
    Taking rest breaks during times of high mental stress (such as exam periods) enhances your energy levels and your ability to concentrate on and retain vital information. Get up, stretch your body, walk around, go outside to reoxygenate yourself
    and grab a drink. You may also wish to try mediation or deep breathing.

  • Exercise
    Exercise is vital at any time, but especially during exams to aid general health and wellbeing. By simply going for a walk, you will feel more refreshed and give your mind a chance to take in what you have learnt.

  • Optimise your study space
    Ensure that your study space has adequate lighting and ventilation, that your chair is at the correct height and your desk is approximately at elbow level for writing.

  • Treat yourself
    Nurture yourself during this busy time with a daily treat, taking a walk, working out in the fitness club, listening to good music or having a massage.

Taking it further

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4th April 2011