The exam period is never easy, and even though it can feel like it, you are not the only person feeling overwhelmed by constant revision. Although many people want to believe that a bit of pressure and anxiety is beneficial for exam time, science has other things to say.

If people are stressed the brain releases a greater level of cortisol. It clouds the way we think and also gets in the way of rational thinking. Due to this, it is important to remain calm, cool, and collected.

Here are some ways for managing stress levels before and during the exams.

1. Eat healthily and exercise

Many times, the whole idea of exercising at the time of tests appears to be the last thing you feel like doing. However, you are guaranteed to feel better for it, with more energy to complete a set of revision afterward. Exercise ensures there is blood flow and your heart is pumping. It is an established stress reducer because it fills the brain with endorphins (aka happy hormones). After you have stopped working out, you will feel more alert. Try and go out for at least one hour each day. It is also critical to consume the right food at the time of stress to ensure wellbeing and mental health. Certain snacks can not only decrease stress but also improve your brainpower.

It is important to set aside a few minutes of your time each day for practicing mindfulness techniques such as UCL's 10 Minute Mind and other breathing exercises. This aids in calming the stress response of your body and focusing attention back on the present. It can also allow you to think rationally about the various anxieties you are facing. This time may be utilised for getting rid of any unhelpful thought patterns and enable you to better manage exams by using more effective revisions. It is very common among university students to panic before, during, or after a test. Take 6 deep breaths, hydrate, and try to break the problem down into manageable chunks. Keep in mind that there is a rational solution available for all problems, even when you are not able to see it at a first glance.

2. Prioritise available time during revision

Prioritising subjects, available time, and workload will help alleviate stress levels. If you have more than a single exam to tackle, use practice questions or guides to prepare yourself for what to expect on exam day. For instance, medical students have to take USMLE Step 2 CK and can undertake USMLE practice questions in preparation. If you have more than one exam, create a calendar with dates for every exam and the topics you need to cover for them.

3. Place all your worries into perspective

Although it is easier said than done, try not to give yourself a difficult time - you are trying the best you can. Always keep the bigger picture in mind and understand exam results are not the end of the world. Placing yourself under a great deal of pressure will hurt your body. If you can be kind to yourself during timed of stress, you may be likely to experience greater motivation to work hard. Try to take some time away from studying just to pamper yourself and catch up with loved ones.

4. Cut out alcohol, nicotine, and caffeine

Cutting down on coffee may seem like an impossible task during the exams - how else are you going to stay awake to memorize textbooks without caffeine or nicotine? Both elements are stimulants and increase your stress level, so try to cut down on their use. Alcohol is also a depressant. Monitor consumption closely during the exam period to also improve sleep.

5. Take mock tests

One of the most common reasons for feeling stress on the day of exams is not knowing what to expect. The best way to overcome this fear is by practicing. Find out examples from earlier tests to get an idea about topics you can expect to be faced with. It is also helpful to tackle questions you are not confident with. 

Setting realistic goals will go a long way in placing things into perspective. It doesn’t matter how much time you have at hand whether a week, a few days, or even a few hours. Accepting your situation and working within realistic timeframes of what you have will maximise productivity without any risk of burning out in the process. Research has shown that revising with peers is a great studying technique, as it allows individuals to absorb  notes in a better manner. In addition to this, there are emotional benefits associated with social support, including a greater sense of autonomy and confidence.

Conclusion

If possible, see if your lecturers have time to review your practice answers to find out areas that need improvement.

Put these tips into practice and be better prepared for exam success.