Hi Friends,
Check out my article on Parsi Times Newspaper dated 9th March 2013, on “Exam Stress - Just Beat It!!!”.
Article Title: Exam Stress – Just Beat It!!!
Article Date: 9th March,
2013
Article on: Parsi Times Newspaper
Article Author: Farzad Minoo Damania
 |
| 15 Tips to beat exam stress |
You can read the
entire transcript of the article below:
Board Exams have already started, anxiety and stress are the
buzz words among students and parents. Students who experience exam stress may
show the following symptoms: inability to sleep, irritable behaviour, loss of appetite,
appearing depressed, feeling sick, unusual bad temper, restlessness, headache
and stomach ache.
Feeling stressed is a natural response to pressure. So here
are 15 tips that will assist you beat exam stress...
Focus on Conceptual
Study: It is very important to focus on conceptual study rather than rote
learning. This helps in avoiding examination stress and also helps in the long
run for better professional success.
Plan your study:
Create a timetable and prioritise your study process. Chalk out a plan and
divide time allotted for each subject judiciously. Put more emphasis on
subjects where you are weak.
Find a dedicated
study place: Get a study place which is relatively free from distraction.
Avoid sitting near the television, computer, bed, or refrigerator. There is no
harm in taking short breaks of 5 to 10 minutes after every hour of continuous
study to optimize your concentration level.
Practise and solve previous
year’s exam papers: It is
a good exercise to solve good number of past question papers, as it makes you
aware of the exam pattern, marking scheme, and helps you develop a good
strategy to face the exam paper. This will also help in developing
self-confidence.
Maintain a balanced
diet: A balanced diet is very
important for your health. Avoid eating food that is high in fat, sugar and
caffeine. Avoid junk food during exams, it can spoil your
health and all your efforts can go to waste. Avoid oily foods as it can make
you feel lethargic. Do not skip your breakfast and dinner schedule.
Reach exam centre
early: It would be wise to reach exam centre at least thirty minutes before
exam time. This will help in reducing anxiety. If your exam centre is outside
your school, you could visit your exam centre a day in advance so that you can
plan your travel time accordingly.
Study Smartly:
Make summary notes, keywords, tables, charts and diagrams; which help in
improving your memorizing process. Re-learn difficult sections of your
syllabus, and explain them to family or friends, which help in boosting your
self-confidence.
Ask for help whenever
needed: If you are feeling stressed or nervous, do not hesitate to ask for
help. Talk to someone you trust such as parent, teacher, school counsellor, or friend;
as they will be able to help you put things in perspective.
Avoid Negative
Thinking: Negative thinking is one of the prime reasons for students
undergoing stressful conditions. It is seen that your confidence is more
important than your competence. Don’t think that your preparation is bad or not
up to the mark. Go ahead and give your best shot.
Develop a Positive
mindset: Maintain a positive “I can do it” attitude. Your stress and
anxiety will be transformed into positive energy which will help you improve
your performance at the exam hall. Keep telling yourself “I will do well”.
Visualization is another method of keeping our mind calm and relaxed.
Try relaxation
techniques: Deep breathing, simple exercises, dance, and music are some of
the tools that can help you relax. But remember not to overdo it. These
techniques are supposed to refresh you, and not tire you or wander your
concentration process.
Get adequate sleep
and rest: Do not over burden yourself. Your body needs adequate rest before
your exam day. You need to
take at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep to recharge yourself.
Do not discuss paper
after exam is over: A very common habit of students is to discuss the paper
after the examination is over. This can lead to unnecessary stress, anxiety and
depression if your answers do not match. It can lead to negative thinking, and
can affect your morale for the remaining examinations.
Avoid comparing your
abilities with your friends: Do not compare your level of revision with
your friends. Each one of us approaches
revision in different ways, so just make sure you have chosen the method that
works best for you.
Work hard and give
your best: Hard work promotes self-belief and liberates you from stressful
and negative thinking.
Best wishes to all students appearing for their board exam.
For all your career queries, reach
out to me on farzad.damania@gmail.com or 9833971773.
Your feedback is highly appreciated.
Best Regards,
Farzad Minoo Damania
Career Counsellor & Corporate Trainer
Career Nurturer
Email: farzad.damania@gmail.com
Mob: 9833971773
