Exams are an unavoidable part of university life. Whether you have one final exam or many exams throughout the year, tests can cause stress and anxiety. However, there are effective strategies to help you prepare for and cope with exam stress. Here are six tips for handling university exams.
1. Start Studying Early
One of the best ways to reduce exam stress is to start studying early. Cramming the night before rarely leads to good exam performance. Instead, begin reviewing your notes, quizzing yourself, and working practice problems at least 2-3 weeks before the exam. Break studying into manageable chunks over multiple sessions instead of marathon study periods. Starting early gives you more time to review the material thoroughly.
2. Prioritize High-Yield Topics
Focus your study time on topics and concepts that are likely to appear on the exam. Ask your professor for guidance, review previous exams if available, and pay attention to the key ideas covered in lectures and assignments. Spend less time memorizing details and more time understanding the most important models, formulas, and frameworks. Prioritizing will maximise your efficiency.
3. Practice Critical Thinking
University exams often go beyond memorizing to test higher-level skills like critical thinking and application. After reviewing your notes, work through practice problems and sample essays without looking at the answers first. Explain concepts aloud in your own words. Connect what you’ve learned to real-world examples. These exercises will prepare you for analytical exam questions.
4. Learn Relaxation Techniques
Feeling extremely stressed before an exam can impair your performance. Combat test anxiety by practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing, visualising success, doing light stretches, or listening to calming music. Eat a healthy snack and avoid too much caffeine. Try a Lift Activ energy boost chew or tablet if you need a quick fix after an energy slump. Arrive early and do some positive self-talk. Relaxing your mind and body will help you focus.
5. Get Plenty of Rest
Lack of sleep can drag down exam scores. In the weeks before a big test, make an effort to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep per night. Maintain your regular sleep schedule to avoid disorientation from exhaustion. The night before, avoid cramming late and wind down at a reasonable hour. Being well-rested will boost your memory, concentration, and stamina.
6. Form a Study Group
Studying with a group of classmates is an excellent way to prepare for exams. Get together to quiz each other, work through practice problems, discuss concepts, and give feedback on sample essays. A study group enables you to tap into others’ knowledge and learn from each other. Explaining the material to others also reinforces your own understanding. Just be sure to choose group members who are serious about studying. Having a study group provides motivation, support, and an opportunity to fill in gaps in your knowledge.
Following these tips for managing study time, materials, anxiety, and rest will go a long way towards exam success. With the right preparation, you can walk into test day feeling confident and focused. Stay proactive about your learning and mental health, and you’ll cope well with the stress of university exams.