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2. Physical preparation
is another critical area to keep in mind when preparing for
exams.
Take good care of yourself.
Make sure to eat healthy foods and get sufficient rest,
especially before an exam. When you are tired, you will be less alert and unable to
perform at your best.
Location, location, location!
On exam day, find a place in the room where you
feel comfortable. Avoid sitting near the door or in other high distraction areas.
Come Prepared.
Bring all necessary supplies for the exam such as a calculator,
pens, pencils, scratch paper, etc.
3. Relaxation
is the last way that you can be prepared for an exam.
Along with both mental and physical preparation, trying to relax both before and during
the exam can improve your overall performance. When your body becomes physically
tense, relaxation removes tension and consequently reduces anxiety – the deeper the
relaxation, the greater the reduction in anxiety. There are several things you can do to
achieve a state of relaxation prior to an exam:
Go for a walk.
Allow adequate time prior to the exam to go for walk. Clear your
mind as you walk and enjoy the sense of relaxation.
Avoid discussing the test.
Don’t discuss the test with anyone, especially fellow
classmates as that only serves to fuel anxiety.
Breath.
Take a series of 10 deep breaths, holding each breath for 10 seconds.
Slowly release your breath.
Tense your muscles to relax them.
While sitting, (not laying down unless you want
others to look at your strangely) tense all the muscles in your body beginning with
your toes and ending at your head. Hold the tension for about 20 seconds.
Release and let your muscles relax completely. Repeat, as needed, until you
feeling feel less anxious and a deeper sense of relaxation.
Stretch.
Stretching your muscles invigorates the body and is a great pick me up,
especially if you’re groggy.
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Section 4 – Learning to Learn & Stress Relief Management