The months of February and March are often accompanied by stress and anxiety for students appearing for their board exams. The pressure to perform well, along with high expectations from parents, can make students feel overwhelmed. According to the survey conducted by the National Council for Educational Research and Training (NCERT), approximately 80% of students in classes 9 to 12 have suffered from anxiety associated with exams and results. However, students must understand that this stress is a natural response, and this difficult period can be managed effectively with appropriate strategies. In the following guide, we will discuss the top 9 exam stress management tips for students.
Prepare a Timetable
Creating a well-structured study schedule is one of the effective ways to overcome exam stress and anxiety. This step avoids the need for last-minute cramming and establishes confidence. Students can start by listing all the subjects and topics. Give extra time to the subjects that feel most difficult. A properly scheduled timetable helps you stay organized and ensures you cover the entire syllabus on time, thus managing stress and anxiety caused by last-minute preparation. It is important to stick to your schedule, but don’t be too hard on yourself.
Practise Active Learning
Instead of engaging in passive reading, incorporate active learning techniques into your study. It makes studying more engaging and effective. Students can try techniques like summarizing notes, making flashcards, practising questions and discussions, conducting quizzes, or making acronyms. For example, make a song for your notes, a poem, or an acronym. This helps to remember things more precisely and easily. Moreover, this learning technique helps students identify areas where they are lacking or need more practise.
Small Outdoor Breaks
Continuous studying can lead to burnout, making children irritated and stressed out. To avoid this, include small outdoor breaks in your study schedule. Step outside for a few minutes to refresh your mind, reducing anxiety levels. Nature has a calming effect, and even a 5 or 10-minute timeout can help recharge the mind, improve focus, and boost the mood. Parents and students must understand that breaks are not a waste of time; instead, they are necessary for maintaining productivity.
Do Not Compare
Be it exam preparation or results, comparing yourself with other students is not healthy. It only adds unnecessary pressure during exam time. Each individual has a unique learning style and pace. While some can grasp things quickly, others might face difficulty learning their topics. Students must focus on their own progress. Set realistic goals & work towards them consistently to get positive results.
Practise Mock Tests
Solving previous year’s papers or practising mock tests is one of the most effective ways to overcome exam anxiety as it helps understand the exam pattern, time management, and the areas you lack. For best results, set a timer and solve the paper as if you are in the real exam setting. Now, once you are finished, analyze your mistakes and work on improving them. This step helps you to be fully prepared for the board exam and boosts your self-confidence.
Stay Positive
Stress and negative thoughts are co-related. In crucial times, especially during exam months, students tend to think a lot, which in turn increases stress. To avoid this, students should stay positive. A positive mindset can work wonders during exam preparation. If you are developing thoughts like “I can’t do this,” replace them with positive affirmations, such as “I am capable and well prepared.” Stay in contact with supportive people who encourage you with positive thoughts. It is important to note that exams are just a part of your journey and not your whole life. So, maintain a positive attitude and perform better.
Avoid Skipping Meals
During exam preparation, most students avoid taking meals. This will not only affect the health but also impact energy levels and concentration. Therefore, maintaining a balanced & nutritious diet is among the best stress management tips for students for exams. A healthy diet provides fuel to the brain, improves memory, and keeps energy levels up to the mark. When your body is nourished, you are less likely to face stress and anxiety.
Proper Sleeping Schedule
A good night’s sleep is as important as exam preparation. A proper sleeping schedule is crucial for effective learning and memory retention. Students must take 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night and avoid late-night study sessions, as they can exhaust the mind and leave you tired and less focused the next day. An affected sleep can negatively impact your exam preparation, leaving you with more stress and anxiety. Therefore, maintain a consistent sleep schedule to overcome exam anxiety.
Study with Friends
Group study or studying with friends can make exam preparation more fun and effective, making it one of the best exam stress management tips for students. Students can form a group to discuss topics, conduct quizzes, share notes, and learn effective learning techniques from each other. This practise helps clarify their doubts and provides moral support. However, ensure that the group study does not turn into a distraction. Choose friends who are serious about studying and set goals for each session.
Conclusion
While exams are an important part of a student’s life, they should not cause stress and anxiety. Students and parents must understand that academic success is not just about grades; it is also about growth and the hard work a student puts in. Chasing the grades leaves students with nothing but stress and anxiety during exam months, thus affecting their health and pushing them towards a life-threatening step. By following the above exam stress management tips for students, children can effectively cope with academic stress.
At Mata Nand Kaur, we understand the importance of exam stress management for students. That’s why our expert faculty provides exam preparation tips to each student, making them feel confident and ready for their board exams. Our teachers offer a supportive academic environment, personalized guidance, and regular mock tests to reduce anxiety among students. If you are searching for the best South West Delhi school, contact us today.
