7 Tips on How To Overcome Exam Tension

It is common for almost every person, young or old, to feel those heavy pounds behind their chest whenever they are about to take a test. But exams and tests need not be a nightmare for anyone.

Anxiety is one cause of failure in exams and not necessarily poor preparedness. A calm person can often think faster and effectively than a person who is unsettled by anxiety. Exam fear is normal but not good. One must therefore find every possible means to eliminate tension before going to write any test or exams

Below are tips on how you can beat anxiety. If you beat this one obstacle, then you are on your way to success.

1. Remember the 5 P’s of success: Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance. This rule also eliminates exam anxiety or tension. Prepare well for your exam. practice past questions. Relax and read the topics you feel anxious about. Kids who read, succeed.
2. Ignore and avoid people that are making predictions or complaining of failing even before the test or exam takes place. Any news that raises tension should be avoided.
3. Avoid last-minute cramming: Review your notes the night before the exam. This will leave information fresh in your head.
4. Keep your mind and body healthy: Get enough sleep, wake early on the exam day and eat good food. Be careful not to eat heavy food. Use meditation to relax.
5. Practice positive self talk: Say to yourself ‘I will excel’, ‘I am an A student’, ‘I will be well prepared for this exam’. Push away negativity from within. People who suffer exam anxiety allow negative thoughts to creep in.
6. During the exam, scan through the questions and highlight what you think you’ll be able to answer. This will boost your confidence.
7. If you still feel tensed, ask for help: This will obviously be before the exam day. Ask an adult, your parents or a counsellor for help. They’ve been in situations like yours before and they might give you surprising advice that will help you.