How to Manage Anxiety Before Exams

Start Early (Seriously)

I know, it’s easy to put off studying until the last minute. But cramming the night before only makes things worse. Trust me, giving yourself enough time to actually understand the material will do wonders for your stress levels. Even just reviewing a little bit every day in the weeks leading up to the exam can make a huge difference. The earlier you start, the more confident you’ll feel going into the test.

Create a Study Plan

One of the biggest sources of anxiety is feeling overwhelmed by how much you need to study. Breaking it down into smaller tasks makes it way less intimidating. Make a list of the topics you need to cover and set goals for each study session. And be realistic! You’re not going to learn everything in one night, so spread it out and give yourself breaks.

Take Breaks and Move Around

Speaking of breaks, they are super important. Your brain can only focus for so long before it starts to get tired. When you hit a wall, take a 10-15 minute break to stretch, go for a walk, or grab a snack. Moving around helps clear your mind and makes it easier to focus when you get back to studying.

Stay Positive

It’s easy to get stuck in negative thinking, like “I’m going to fail” or “I’m not smart enough for this.” But those thoughts only make you more anxious. Instead, remind yourself of the effort you’re putting in and the progress you’re making. Believe in yourself! Positive self-talk might sound cheesy, but it works.

Practice Relaxation Techniques

When anxiety starts to creep in, try some simple relaxation techniques. Deep breathing is my go-to. Just close your eyes, take a slow deep breath in through your nose, and then breathe out through your mouth. Repeat this a few times until you start to feel calmer. Some people also like to meditate or do yoga, whatever helps you relax.

Get a Good Night's Sleep

I can’t stress this enough, sleep is so important! Pulling an all-nighter might seem like a good idea, but being exhausted during the exam will only hurt you. Make sure you get a full night's sleep the night before, so you’re sharp and ready to tackle the test.

Eat a Good Breakfast

On the day of the exam, don’t skip breakfast! Eating something nutritious will give you the energy to focus and perform your best. Go for something that will keep you full and alert, like eggs, whole grains, or fruit. Avoid sugary stuff that will make you crash halfway through.

Keep Things in Perspective

Finally, remember that one exam is not the end of the world. Yes, doing well is important, but it’s not the only thing that defines your success. Try to keep things in perspective and focus on doing your best without putting too much pressure on yourself.