It is that time of year again as we move into Spring when exam season begins.  There are probably huge amounts of teenagers who are feeling stressed out, worried and overwhelmed right now.

Although it feels like forever, I remember that time well.  The knot in my stomach, constant thoughts of I can’t do this or none of this revision is going in, pounding chest of stress and panic alongside sweaty palms when holding my pen and gripping it so tightly.

For anyone who is reading this and is feeling this way, you are not alone.

Below I have created some useful tips for supporting you through your exams that will hopefully help you out.

Top tips for exam preparation

• Prioritise what needs to be done first.  Think about what needs to be completed first, in what order and what can be done at a later date.  Divide the work into manageable chunks so you don’t feel as overwhelmed looking at everything you need to revise for.

• Make a realistic timetable that you feel you can stick to.  Find a method of learning which works for you and remember to take time out to rest and do fun stuff as revising too long is known to decrease productivity.

• Find an appropriate revision space that feels good.  Ask yourself do you prefer to work in a quiet tidy area or work with some background noise, if that’s the case set the space up you are comfortable in.  If you like background noise you could create a soothing music playlist to listen to or if you like a tidy area you could tidy the room before you begin your revision.

• Remove distractions. I know you probably want to stay connected with your friends or have your phone by your side to help with your revision but it could be a distraction when scrolling through Instagram, sending snaps or watching endless Tiktoks, time so quickly drifts away.  How about putting your phone on silent, moving it to the other side of the room or placing it in a drawer so you are less likely to get distracted by it.

• Take regular breaks as you and your brain needs to rest.  I know you will be feeling the pressure to revise endlessly but it is important to schedule in the things you like to do whether this is catching up with a friend, going on a walk, watching Netflix, gaming or doing something creative.  Remember to look after your physical health by making sure you are regularly eating healthy food to fuel your brain (of course treat yourself as well, it’s all about balance). Drink enough fluids as well as exercising and getting enough good quality sleep.  If you stay up late cramming in revision it may make it harder the next day to function due to tiredness whilst a good quality night’s sleep will help you to focus and improve your working memory.

• Schedule in fun things to look forward to after a week of exams or is there anything you want to do once your exams are over.

• Focus on your needs and don’t compare yourself to others (I know easier said than done).  Everybody will revise differently and will have their own learning style.  Find what works for you.

More tips and advice

I hope you find these tips useful and please check out these useful websites and YouTube video for more tips and advice.

https://www.annafreud.org/on-my-mind/self-care/revision/

https://www.childline.org.uk/info-advice/school-college-and-work/school-college/exam-stress

https://www.youngminds.org.uk/young-person/coping-with-life/exam-stress/#dealingwithexamstress

https://www.healthforteens.co.uk/feelings/exam-stress/

https://youtu.be/Ip_LCrZRINE 

All the best for your exams and remember to believe in yourself!

Em