Tips for Stress Management during Exams By Tahsin Abedi
You did it! You have successfully reached the end of a virtual semester and finals are now knocking at the door. Even though we may not be lining up outside the fieldhouse to write our finals in person this year, online exams can be just as stressful, if not more. If you are suffering from exam anxiety, here are some tips for you:
cluttered desk and an uncluttered mind.
Utilise time management skills.
Break your study times into smaller blocks of 40-50 minutes and remember to take breaks in between. This has been shown to be the most productive, allowing Create a separate workspace. the brain to rest in between tasks. Try to complete assignments at Working from home may mean least one to two days before the that you've been watching zoom deadline as this allows you time lectures from your bed. Although to go through your work and fix this may seem convenient, it is any mistakes and also leaves you not recommended for efficiency less stressed out right before the and is unhelpful for exam anxi- due date. ety. Try creating a separate study space and chill space in your liv- Avoid multitasking. ing area. Even if you have a smaller area, just having a designated Although it may seem like a more corner for studying can help your efficient use of your time, it is mind focus better. actually less effective and reduces your quality of work. It is also Declutter your workspace. more stressful and has been proven to increase heart rate. Close Clear out unnecessary clutter any unnecessary tabs on your from around your desk. Stacks computer window. List down all of papers, old pictures, staples- the things that you wish to comanything that may distract you plete that day and go through from your work. This includes them one at a time. your computer as well. Clear out your desktop and organise your Limit the time you spend on files to make it easier to find the your phone during breaks. things you are looking for. Take 5 minutes at the end of every day Have set times during which you to clear out any mess so that you check your social media feed once can start tomorrow with an un- or twice a day and turn off unnec3
December 2020
essary notifications. There are several apps that have been designed to help you stay off your phone and focus on studying for exams. Some of them are: Offtime, Moment and Forest.
Take time to move your body. Exercise can help release the endorphins and help alleviate some of that exam stress. Having a workout buddy often helps you stay motivated to exercise. If that is not your thing, feel free to take a short walk and get some sun. You can also do some stretching exercises and at-home yoga!
Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness is the practice of being aware of the mind and body. For example, it could be when you focus on the act of breathing and move your focus through your body. There are many apps to guide you through mindfulness and meditation: like Calm, Headspace, etc.
Get enough sleep. 8 hours of sleep is necessary for your brain to be well rested to work efficiently the next day. Try going to sleep and waking up at around the same time every day to help set your body’s internal clock and to improve quality of
