Tips for dealing with exam stress: for students

Exams can be a stressful time for students, parents and teachers! It can often lead to overwhelming exam stress and anxiety. However, implementing a few simple strategies can greatly relieve these feelings and improve your performance.

Here are some tips on dealing with exam stress:

1. Stay organised

Break down what you need to study into manageable chunks and assign specific times for each topic or subject. This way, you won’t feel overwhelmed trying to tackle everything at once. Stick to your schedule as much as possible, but also be flexible if you need to adjust it along the way.

2. Ask for help

Don’t be afraid to reach out for support if you’re struggling. Whether it’s asking a teacher for clarification on a topic, getting a study buddy to help you review material, or talking to a counsellor about your stress.

3. Relaxation techniques

When you’re feeling stressed or anxious, it’s important to have techniques to help you relax. Deep breathing and meditation can help clear your mind and bring a sense of peace and focus.
Even something as simple as taking a walk outside can give you a break from studying. Taking an exam can be similar to having an interview – check out tips for relaxing before an interview that can be used to help you relax before an exam.

4. Don’t beat yourself up

Remember that one exam doesn’t define your worth or your future. If things don’t go perfectly, it’s okay. There will always be other opportunities to learn and improve. Focus on doing your best in the moment and trust that you’ll continue to grow.

Ready to deal with exam stress now?

Dealing with exam stress isn’t easy, but there are ways to make it better. By staying organised with a study plan, relaxing with techniques like deep breathing, keeping in mind that exams are just a part of life, and not being afraid to ask for help, you can handle the pressure more effectively. Remember to take care of yourself, and with a positive attitude, you can beat exam stress and do your best.

For more advice on what to do after school – check out our school leavers’ guide!