Tests and examinations can be a major source of stress for students. Heavy syllabi and lack of time to study can cause students’ stress levels to soar, sometimes resulting in panic attacks. Your brain is also likely to get blocked up after hours of studying because you reach your mental saturation level.
Despite this stress, it’s important to keep a calm mind while taking tests. It may sound far-fetched, but this is the only way you can eliminate nervousness and answer everything on the exam. If you are facing a stressful test, you should follow the tips below to calm and clear your mind.
Prepare in advance
One excellent way to keep last-minute stress at bay is by starting to prepare for the test in advance. You should sit with your text for at least an hour each day, recapping everything that was taught in class. You should start revising your notes early on so that you can relax the night before the test.
Take a break
It’s natural to feel overloaded with information after studying for hours on end. Your brain cannot process any more information beyond this point. You can get back to normal by taking a short break in between your studies. Do something for yourself, such as playing a sport, going for a walk in the park, or watching some TV to take your mind off of your studies for some time.
Breathe
Meditation is a centuries-old practice of calming the mind. Perhaps try it out before a difficult test. All you have to do is take deep breaths and focus on your breathing for a few minutes. You can find a quiet place in your house, or sit with your eyes closed at your desk itself. Try counting the number of breaths and bringing your attention back to the counting when you see your attention wandering.
Exercise
If you are feeling nervous about the test, you should get yourself moving. Exercising helps you to take a break from your studies and get all your tiredness out. It relaxes you by relaxing your muscles. Exercising also releases certain chemicals in the brain that help in countering stress. You can go for a jog, play basketball, or do any physical activity that you like. The point is to get up from your study table and do something different for some time.
Pack early
If you have an early morning test the next day, you should consider packing everything the night before. You should go prepared for the test to avoid unnecessary stress. Pack your admission card, pens and pencils, textbook, notes, and anything else that you might need the previous day. This way, you won’t forget to take your essential items.
Talk to a friend
Last but not the least, you can de-stress yourself by talking to somebody. It can be your sibling, a cousin, or your close friend. Look for some encouragement so that you feel more confident about yourself. However, you should try not to talk to anyone from your class, because listening to their preparation may stress you out more.
