Revision techniques and Coping with Exam Stress

First of all, congratulations on making it to the end of term 2! As this term draws to a close, exam season grows ever nearer. For most, this is the most stressful time of the academic year, and it is hard to stop that stress from taking over. However, by starting early, finding the right techniques, and taking care of yourself you can ease the strain and make it through.

Revision techniques:

It is important to find a revision method that works best for you! Here are some common revision techniques to try:

· Past paper questions

· Cue cards

· Mind mapping

· Teaching someone else

· Retrieval practise

· Making PowerPoint presentations

Coping with exam stress:

Start early

Give yourself enough time to cover everything you need to revise. By starting early and having less to do each day you will minimise the pressure you put upon yourself.

Plan your time

The best way to manage your time is to draw up a revision timetable. This timetable should include everything you need to revise broken up into 20–25-minute revision stints. Being well prepared for your exams is the best way to relieve the stress and anxiety associated with them!

Be flexible

You can have the best revision plan in the world, but life will inevitably get in the way. It is important to remember that things don’t always go as planned, but that’s okay!

Take care of yourself

When your mind and body are well-cared for you will achieve more effective revision.

• Wellness It is important to take care of your mental wellbeing during this extremely stressful period. Practising some meditation, journaling, or talking to someone can be great ways to help
  

• Eating Eating healthy will increase your ability to focus and fuel your revision.
  

• Exercise Exercise is a great way to de-stress and in turn, helps keep both your mind and body healthy.
  

• Sleep Push yourself to get your full 8 hours of sleep! Sleeping will improve your memory for things you have previously learned as well as prepare you for things you are going to learn.

On a final note: The weeks leading up to exams can be extremely tough. While planning your time and working hard will help you achieve the best results, it is important to not be too hard on yourself. Remember to take regular breaks and reward yourself so you don’t end up burnt out! Written by Jaz Peat, Publicity Volunteer.