Think of Exams as Part of Your Learning Experience

At times, I take about nine to 10 hours to complete topics that should require no more than an hour. I become very tense when I come to know that my classmates have studied. Also, if somebody says something to me, I keep thinking about that. Help!

I suggest you incorporate some fun activities in your schedule. If it is taking you a long time to finish a topic, it means that you are unable to focus or are getting distracted. Stressing about how much needs to be done, how much others have completed, or what others expect from you can make it very hard for you to focus. When you feel stuck while studying, take a short break, chat with friends or family members, go out for a walk or just try to relax by deep breathing.

What you study is for your benefit. Everybody studies at their pace. Do not compare yourself with your friends. Study the way in which you can benefit the most. Try to find your strategy. Once you are comfortable with your study pattern, you will be able to focus better. If still bothered by how much your classmates have covered, try to avoid talking about it. Try to relax and clear your head before you start studying.

High school can be a little tough on students due to peer pressure and sometimes their hostility. It is a part of growing up. Do not get too bothered by what people say about you. You cannot please everybody. Accept your strengths and weaknesses. If you feel you have a problem you cannot handle or are feeling too stressed about it, talk to your school counsellor or a teacher

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7 types to minimize exam stress 

i. Revision tips

Develop a timetable to monitor your progress. Make sure you allocate adequate time for fun and relaxation as well.

While revising a subject, practise writing. This would be an actual simulation of the examination itself. Plan your revision and complete it in time. This will give you a sense of achievement and build your confidence.

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.

Spend as much time on recall as on reading. Practise by writing answers as you would do in the exam. This will help you remember the important points when you answer each paper.

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

ii. Time out

To prevent mental fatigue, take a short break as soon as you notice your mind is losing concentration. Stick to activities that do not break your study continuum during these breaks. Avoid television and loud music. You will then be able to come back to your revision refreshed.

It is important to relax. Your mind and body perform at their best only if you get adequate rest.

iii. Maintain a regular sleep pattern

A regular seven hours of sleep is mandatory for the body to function well. Also, sleep at a regular time; don't alter your sleeping cycle.

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.

Try and stop working an hour before bedtime. You will find it helpful to do some muscular relaxation, which is particularly effective in relieving stress.

iv. What to eat

Food rich in vitamins and proteins, such as green leafy vegetables and fresh fruits, are a must.

The nutrients will help your brain stay sharp. Avoid food with high fat content.

Don't drink too much coffee, tea or fizzy drinks. Caffeine will keep you up and reduce the clarity of your thinking. 

v. NO distractions 

Keep all unimportant issues at bay.

Right now, the board examinations should be your only focus. Stay away from distractions that could cause loss of concentration or unwanted anxiety. Stick to activities that do not break your study continuum.

vi. The power of positive thinking

Spend time with people who have a positive effect. It will rub off on you.

Avoid negative thoughts, such as 'Everyone else seems better organised, while I'm struggling.' Challenge such thoughts with positive thinking; for example, 'I have done well in exams before.'

vii. Practise relaxation techniques

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.

If you believe in God, pray before you start studying. Prayer will help you increase confidence reduce your stress as well.

And yes, lots of luck with those exams.