Exam season is upon us, and here at IPM Lancaster, we know this is an important time. Collectively, we have worked with students for a number of years and understand just how stressful a time it can be. Whilst taking exams can be a breeze for some people, this isn’t the case for everyone. That’s why we’ve put out heads together and come up with some tips and tricks to help you stay calm, beat the stress and boss your exam!
Take regular breaks
Make sure that you schedule frequent breaks to split up your revision schedule. Don’t forget to make time to do things you enjoy too, such as a lazy movie day, going on a night out or meeting up with your friends. Your brain will be most productive when you’re getting proper rest. Spending time doing things you love will leave your brain and body feeling more refreshed and relaxed during your next revision session.
Get out and look after your body
The weather is at its best during the spring/summer months therefore break up your revision by giving yourself opportunities to spend time outside. This could be for exercise or just a nice walk around the city. Exercise gets your blood pumping and fills your brain with endorphins so, even though the thought of exercise can be a nightmare, it will make you feel better.
Fuelling your body with a poor diet and energy drinks can make symptoms of anxiety and stress worse. Therefore, make sure you’re getting a full 8 to 9 hours of sleep a night, eating a healthy diet, drinking more water, and exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. Click here to find some healthy recipes perfect for students on a budget.
Set achievable goals
It doesn’t matter how long you have to revise (days, weeks, months) setting yourself realistic and achievable goals that can actually be reached is a key to boosting your morale and productivity. Don’t panic if you happen to go a little off-plan, tomorrow is another day to try your best. An unrealistic revision schedule will only put you under unnecessary stress.
Do whatever works best for you, whether that’s working in a group, writing notes, making mind maps, there’s no correct way to revise! Remember to not compare what you do to others, just make sure you’re revising in the best way that is suited to your needs.
Get support from others
Try and spend time with those you love. Whether that’s revising together in a small group, taking a break, unwinding with your friends, or spending time with family and talking about how you feel. Asking for support and help from friends/family and talking to them about how you are feeling can be extremely helpful. Please don’t be afraid to seek help and support from others if you need to.
We understand that exams are stressful, that’s why it’s so important that you don’t give yourself such a hard time over them. If you want more information on dealing with stress and anxiety, visit the NHS website here. You’re doing your best and that’s all you can do, and you should be really proud of that! Good luck with all of your exams and work within your last term at university.
To keep up to date with all things Lancaster and student housing visit the IPM Lancaster blog page here.