Exam Fear

 

The world has become so fast paced that even education is now a rat race. The Indian education system lays much emphasis on marks and grades. Notwithstanding inspirational movies that chide this race, the fact remains that it is performance of the students in those few crucial examination hours that determines his/her entire future.

  • The students does not remain insulated from this fact and is hence coerced to join the race.

So much to 'cram' ... so little time to do it...

Here are a few tips that should help students deal with exam fears and pressures.

Revision tips

Make a Time Table. Allocate adequate time for fun and relaxation as well.

Practise writing. This would be an actual simulation of the examination itself. Practise writing answers under exam conditions. Take three hour tests, without a break in between, preferably at the same time as that of the exam. This will help your body clock adjust to the examination time and conditions.

While revising, vary subjects and their difficulty so you don't get bored or disheartened. Set realistic targets of what you can achieve in the time available.

During the Exam

 

Try to avoid panic.
It's natural to feel some exam nerves prior to starting the exam and that can be a positive and motivating feeling. However, getting excessively nervous is counterproductive as it hinders your ability to think clearly.

Breathe deep.
The quickest and most effective way of eliminating feelings of stress and panic is to close your eyes and take several long, slow deep breaths. Breathing in this way calms your whole nervous system.

Blankety blank?
If your mind goes blank, don't panic - it just makes it harder to recall information. Instead, focus on slow, deep breathing for about one minute. If you still can't remember the information then move on to another question and return to this question later.

Don’t dwell on past exams.
Don't spend time focusing where you think you went wrong. Often we are our own harshest critics. Congratulate yourself for the things you did right, learn from the bits where you know you could have done better, and then move on.

Source: http://www.wellscotland.info

To prevent mental fatigue, take a short break as soon as you notice your mind is losing concentration. Avoid television and loud music. It is important to relax. Your mind and body perform at their best only if you get adequate rest.

Doctor's recommend at least 8 hours of sleep for the body to function well. It is not important whether you study late or get up early, as long as you get into the habit of being most alert at the same time as that of the exam. Identify the time of the day (or night) when you function the best and work during those hours. However, set your work hours to coincide with the time of the examination.

Keep Distractions at an arm's length. Eat well and keep your mind and body fit for the D-Day.

Avoid people who are negative. Be positive.

Practise deep breathing, meditation and yoga as forms of relaxation. They help your body relax and reduce stress. Alternately, take a brisk walk in fresh air after your day's revision is over.