6 ways to manage exam stress during board exam season

NEW DELHI: As board exams draw near, students frequently experience academic pressure and heightened expectations. The prospect of facing comprehensive assessments can trigger overwhelming stress and anxiety, which if left unchecked can compromise both mental health and academic performance.

Recognising the significance of managing exam-related stress is the first step towards fostering resilience and maintaining calm during this demanding period. In this listicle, we explore five effective strategies by Ajay Singh, School Principal of the Scindia School to empower students to navigate through the challenging board exam duration while ensuring their overall well-being and academic success.

Create a Realistic Study Schedule: Create a well-structured study timetable that can help you manage your time effectively and reduce last-minute cramming. Break down your subjects into manageable chunks and allocate specific time slots for each. Make sure to include short breaks to maintain focus.

Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Incorporate mindfulness and relaxation exercises into your daily routine to alleviate stress. Deep breathing, meditation, yoga, and progressive muscle relaxation are proven methods to calm your mind and reduce anxiety levels. Spend a few minutes each day engaging in these practices to foster a sense of peace and clarity.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate sleep are crucial for optimal brain function and stress management. Fuel your body with nutritious foods, stay hydrated, and prioritize physical activity to boost your energy levels and enhance concentration. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to recharge your body and mind.

Seek Support from Family and Friends: Never hesitate to reach out to your loved ones for emotional support during the exam season. Share your concerns and feelings with them and allow them to provide encouragement and reassurance. Surrounding yourself with positive influences can help alleviate feelings of isolation and foster a sense of belonging.

Practice Positive Self-Talk and Visualization: Cultivate a positive mindset by replacing negative thoughts with affirmations and encouragement. Visualize yourself succeeding in your exams and focus on your strengths and achievements. Celebrate small victories along the way and remind yourself that you are capable of overcoming challenges. By fostering a positive self-image, you can boost your confidence and resilience in the face of adversity.

Prioritize Revision and Review: Regular revisions are important for reinforcing concepts and identifying areas that require further clarification. Allocate dedicated time for reviewing your notes, practicing past papers, and seeking assistance for challenging topics. Effective revision strategies can boost your confidence and performance on exam day. During this time the focus must remain on revising concepts and strengthening understanding and recall, rather than trying to learn new concepts. Last-minute attempts at trying to learn new concepts can lead to unnecessary panic that can derail the study plan and revision schedule.

By implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage exam stress and navigate the board exam season with confidence and resilience. Remember to prioritize self-care and maintain a balanced approach to studying, and don't forget to celebrate your accomplishments along the way. Good luck!