How to reduce stress before an exam?
Hey everyone!!
I thought that I would share some strategies that I use to reduce my stress levels before an exam.
1) I make sure that I have had a good night's sleep 😴 before the day of the exam.
2) I have a nutritious meal on the day and stay hydrated! I find that it helps me concentrate during the exam.
3) Just before the exam starts I close my eyes and take in 5 deep breaths.
How do you calm your nerves before an exam?
Comments
These are all some amazing tips that I'll impliment during my final year of University. For me, it's just remembering that I have done all I can to prepare for this exam and whatever the result is, I should be proud of myself for completing the exam.
I used to be incredibly hard on myself during high school, I would cry before exams thinking I wasn't good enough and would get mad at myself if I got 19/20. Ridiculous, I know. So now I've reframed my mindset into, whatever happens, I am proud of myself for achieving it.
For exam days I like to wake up early and have a good breakfast (I know it's a good idea to have breakfast anyways but it's mostly so my stomach doesn't start making whale noises in the silent room) 🍳🐳
A good night's sleep is always a good idea, I aim for at least 8 hours 💤
I like to practice grounding techniques before I go into the exam room because I'm often stressed. It's important to recognise when the stress is productive (i.e., important for performance) and when it's maladaptive 🧐
If I'm allowed to have it I like having a water bottle with me in the exam because if I get stressed I can stop and take a sip of water, giving me some time to calm down 😌💧
I also like to pack my bag with all the stuff I'll need for the exam the night before because, lets face it, there's generally a lot of stress the morning of an exam and a packed bag is one less thing to worry about 😅✏️
Hey @Friendlyhelper
Those are some great strategies!
Honestly, before the exam I remind myself it’s too late to be worried now and that it’s not going to achieve anything. I know that I’ll do the best that I can and if my best isn’t very good, that’s okay, I’ll try again next time. I also try to remember that an exam is probably not what I’m going to remember when I get old and look back on my life (and if the most memorable thing that happens in my life is an exam, then that’s kind of sad 😂).
I think this can be helpful if you tend to ruminate about things.
Hey @Friendlyhelper ,
These are some awesome tips! I'm taking a break from studying at the moment but gosh, I don't miss the stress of exams. To add to your great list:
- Meditate or take a walk in nature the night before the exam. It really helps to clear your head and get your brain ready for the big day! If you exercise, it's always great to do that too.
- Journal about how you're feeling to get all those nervy thoughts out of your head and into a journal. You can also do some affirmations and tell yourself that it's okay and you're going to do well!
- Prepare everything you need the night before so that you're not worrying about it the morning of. For example, get all your stationery and notes ready, lay out your clothes (comfy ones if you don't need to wear a uniform) and fill up your water bottle.
Thank you for coming up with this post, it can be helpful and a good reminder to calm your nerves before exams in different ways.
I also make sure I get a good sleep, eat something nutritious and I like to practice self-care such as listening to music, or going for a walk.
Hi all! These are all such amazing pre-exam tips and routines. I just wanted to add that I try to maintain my normal pre-exam routines to minimise the inevitable exam-related disruption. I also try and find a quiet spot before the exam to avoid any potential fear mongers (although I do understand their angst) to make sure I can try my best to walk into the exam with a clearer mind. Best of luck with everyone's future exams! 
