8 simple tips for exam success

Exams – they’re pretty tough, aren’t they?

Luckily, there are ways to deal with the stresses and get the marks you want.

Here are our 8 simple tips for exam success…

1. Make the most of your study time

Don’t just panic, bury your head in a heap of books and hope for the best. Get organised.

Make a schedule and work out how much time you need for each subject.

Study a little each day and give your brain a break every 45 minutes. Avoid cramming the night before – it’s not the way to guarantee a good mark.

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2. Don’t just study solo 

Why not form a study group with friends? It’ll provide you with variety and moral support, plus it’s motivating to have people around you who are working towards the same goals.

3. Deal with your stress

Exam stress is perfectly normal – in fact, a little bit of stress can be a positive motivator.

However, too much of it can negatively affect your performance.

So take regular breaks, exercise daily, and spend time relaxing with friends. If you begin to feel frustrated or overwhelmed, step away from the books for a while.

4. Ask for help

Don’t be afraid to ask your teachers for help – they’ll be glad to assist.

If you need clarification on a topic you’re struggling with, then ask them to talk you through it. Don’t panic in silence when there’s a support network around you.

5. Get plenty of sleep

Rest is good for your brain. Get a full eight hours sleep each night and avoid studying till the early hours.

Sleep is vital to exam success.

6. Prep the night before

Pack everything you need into a bag the night before – this way you can avoid a last minute rush the next day.

Essential items might include pens, pencils, a calculator and water.

7. Make the most of your morning

Get up early and eat breakfast – whether you feel like it or not.

Hunger will slow down your brain, plus who wants a rumbling tummy in the exam room?

Also, make sure to wear comfortable clothes with layers you can add or remove – you don’t know how warm or cold the exam room will be.

8. When you’re in the exam room… take your time

When waiting outside the exam room, avoid the temptation to discuss what you’ve studied with your friends. You’ll probably all have studied slightly different things so don’t panic each other!

Just sit quietly outside the room, breathe deeply and avoid looking at your notes. Once inside, read the exam instructions very carefully. Allocate time for each question and keep an eye on the clock.

If you don’t know the answer to a question, skip it and return to it later. Never leave an exam early, use your time given to fully complete and revise your answers. And remember – you can only do your best.

Good luck!

Need more exam tips? Find out why it’s useful to know your learning style. Or view our 13 study tips for success infographic.

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