Board exams—a term that sends shivers down the spine of many students. As a student myself, I’ve experienced the sleepless nights, the endless revision sessions, and the constant pressure to perform. But over time, I’ve realized that stress doesn’t have to take over our lives. Here’s how I’ve learned to manage exam stress, and I hope these tips resonate with fellow students.
- Create a Realistic Study Plan
Planning is everything. I used to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of syllabus to cover, but breaking it down into smaller, manageable chunks made a huge difference. I started by listing all the topics I needed to study and then assigned specific days to each. Knowing what to study and when gave me a sense of control and reduced my anxiety.
- Take Breaks Without Feeling Guilty
Initially, I thought taking breaks was wasting time, but I’ve learned that breaks are essential for staying focused. I follow the 50-10 rule: 50 minutes of studying and a 10-minute break to stretch, grab a snack, or just relax. These short breaks help recharge my brain and prevent burnout.
- Practice Relaxation Techniques
Whenever I feel the stress creeping in, I take a few deep breaths. Sometimes, I sit quietly and meditate for five minutes or listen to calming music. These little moments of mindfulness help me stay grounded and calm, especially before starting a challenging subject.
- Stay Active and Eat Right
Studying for hours can make us feel tired and sluggish. I make sure to take a walk or do some light exercise daily. Also, I’ve replaced chips and sugary snacks with fruits and nuts—they keep my energy levels steady and my mind sharp.
- Avoid Procrastination
This one’s tough, but I’ve learned that the longer I delay studying, the more stressed I feel. Tackling my least favorite subjects first and rewarding myself afterward has been a game-changer. Procrastination only adds to the pressure, so starting early has saved me a lot of unnecessary panic.
- Talk About Your Stress
Sometimes, sharing my worries with a friend, parent, or teacher helps lighten the load. They often remind me that I’m not alone in feeling this way and that it’s okay to ask for help. A little pep talk or advice can do wonders for my confidence.
- Practice With Mock Tests
Taking mock tests has helped me get used to the exam format and manage my time better. It’s not just about memorizing—it’s about learning how to apply what we know. Plus, seeing improvements in my scores over time is a big confidence booster.
- Focus on Progress, Not Perfection
I’ve realized that chasing perfection only adds to my stress. Instead, I focus on doing my best and improving bit by bit. Mistakes are part of the learning process, and every small step forward counts.
- Limit Distractions
Social media can be a major distraction, and I’ve learned to keep my phone away while studying. Setting specific times to check messages or scroll through Instagram ensures I don’t waste hours without realizing it.
- Stay Positive and Believe in Yourself
Most importantly, I remind myself that exams are just one part of life. I’ve started focusing on the effort I’m putting in rather than worrying about the results. Positive affirmations, like “I can do this,” help keep self-doubt away.
A Message to Fellow Students
Dear friends, I know how tough this phase can be. But remember, you’re not alone. We’re all in this together, and it’s okay to feel stressed sometimes. What matters is how we handle it. Take one day at a time, believe in yourself, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you need it.
Board exams are important, but they’re not the end of the world. Let’s do our best and leave the rest to fate. Good luck to all of us!
Author
Yaash Sahnan
Gyanshree School – Noida
https://www.instagram.com/canalpha.solutions
