6 simple tricks to reduce stress before an exam
As students, we have all been through the grind of studying for exams and tests. The pressure can be immense, and sometimes we feel like there's no way out. I’ve been studying for my whole life: school, university, 2 years of college. I’ve learned 4 languages over the past 25 years and over time I’ve developed some patterns that help me with reducing stress before exams and tests.
First things first, sleep is crucial. It's not just about getting one good night's sleep before the exam, but about maintaining a good sleep schedule for weeks leading up to the exam. Sleep helps us to remember things better, feel happier, and be less likely to get sick. It will also help you feel refreshed and alert, and prevent you from feeling tired and drained during the exam.
Next, remember that a test is just a test. It's designed to evaluate your skills and knowledge. If you're in college, your teachers will often give you a breakdown of the topics that will be covered in the test. For standardized tests like the IELTS and TOEFL, all you need to do is master the structure. Once you know the format, taking the test becomes much easier. Remember, exams and tests don't define you as a person or your entire life. You can always retake them if needed.
Don't let perfectionism get in the way. We all want to score 100% on the test, but it's not always possible. Don't overthink the questions and answers. Stick to the patterns that you've learned and practiced.
Practice, practice, practice. Sample tests are a great way to prepare for the exam. If your average score on a practice test is consistent, chances are that you'll get the same result on the actual exam. Keep practicing until you're confident in your abilities.
Create a cheat sheet and review it before the exam. If you're forgetting certain phrases or formulas, write them down so you can quickly review them before the exam. However, don't focus on learning new vocabulary or formulas at the last minute. It's not good for you, and you might end up using them incorrectly and lose points.
Lastly, surround yourself with the language or subject matter a few days before the exam. This could mean listening to music in the language you're studying or reading articles related to the subject. Immerse yourself in the material, and it will help you feel more confident and comfortable during the exam.
Ultimately, taking the time to develop good study habits can not only help you succeed in your current course, but it will also be advantageous when tackling future hurdles. And remember: you're not fighting against yourself, you're trying to gain control and overcome obstacles. People, after all, are more likely to succeed if they feel like they have some power over their own lives, even if that power is a little illusionary.
