Exams

Exam Stress

It is very common to feel worried, anxious and under pressure at exam times. Although some stress can be helpful, too much and you may:

  • Feel tired and drained but find it hard to sleep
  • Be forgetful
  • Find it hard to concentrate
  • Lose your appetite
  • Feel panicky and unable to cope
  • Get headaches
  • Feel tearful or lose your temper easily

There are however, lots of things you can try to reduce your stress. Be prepared (this will help you feel in control and that you have done your best).

  • Plan ahead and don’t leave everything until the last minute
  • Make sure you know exactly when all your exams are
  • Plan a realistic revision timetable – and stick to it! 
  • Find out which revision techniques work best for you – and use them
  • Ask your teachers/tutors if you need help your timetable or revision suggestions
  • Let your family know how they can support you, e.g. you may need some quiet time at home without interruptions

 

Relax (no-one can study all the time - get the balance right).

  • Timetable regular short breaks into your revision schedule 
  • Make sure you take time out to do something you enjoy

Whatever works for you and helps you relax ... and don’t forget to eat regular meals (it will help your energy levels!)

On the day

  • Get up and ready in plenty of time ... don’t forget breakfast
  • Make sure you’ve got everything you need for the day – pens, pencils, equipment etc
  • Give yourself enough time to find/get to the exam room without rushing
  • Don’t panic when you see the exam paper.  Before you do anything read the instructions and all the questions very carefully right to the end of the paper and don’t forget to check the reverse of each page!
  • Work out which questions you are going to answer and how much time allow for each before you start!

If you’re feeling anxious or panicky – you could try some deep breathing.  Check out the ‘Study and Exam Skills’ leaflet (below) for more details.

After the exam

  • Allow yourself to be happy it’s over and that you’ve done your best.
  • Don’t go over the questions again and again – there’s nothing you can do – just move on to the next one!

Results day

Things don’t always work out how you hope they will. If your results aren’t as expected (whether better or not quite as good) or you’ve changed your mind about you what you want to do – don’t worry. It’s not too late to re-think your plans and there’ll still be lots of options open to you. The most important thing is to get information, support and advice from your teachers, tutors and Youth Connexions Personal Adviser and find out about everything available so you can avoid making a hasty decision.

For more information, take a look at these links:

Childline’s ‘Beat Exam Stress’ booklet

BBC – The Surgery 

The Site (Studying section)  

Click below to download the Youth Connexions Hertfordshire’s ‘Study and Exam Skills’ leaflet.