Examinations can cause major anxiety and
stress, and the best way of coping with
the situation is to make sure you're well
prepared before you put pen to paper.
Those studying for exams often pull all-
nighters trying to cram in as much
information as possible. This can however
be counterproductive, and getting plenty
of sleep, eating well, getting enough
exercise and having a good study strategy
can make it easier to achieve exam
success.
Educational psychologist Dorrithé Benadé
shared some tips with News24.
Preparing for the exam:
• Maintain a revision mentality
throughout year. Make clear, visual and
colourful notes. Leave space to add new
information. Go over your work at regular
intervals.
• Start preparing as early as possible and
use your time carefully. Draw up a
revision time table and priority organiser.
• Keep a positive mindset and attitude by
concentrating on positive self-talk.
• Work with friends who have the same
goals.
• Stay healthy by getting enough sleep,
make time to relax and take plenty of
breaks. Drink plenty of water.
Incorporate physical activity and exercise
so that you can work off excess
adrenaline.
• Practice relaxation and breathing
techniques to help you stay calm.
• Use exam papers from previous years.
Check which questions come up
frequently. Time yourself writing some of
the papers to build writing speed and for
general practice. Discuss questions with
others. Plan answers by considering e.g.
what unnecessary details can be left out
of exam answers.
• Avoid people who make you feel unsure
of yourself – those who are super-
confident and those who panic.
The night before:
• Check exam details.
• Put out what you will need: e.g. pens,
ruler, water, snacks.
• Get enough sleep!
The day of the exam:
• Eat well before the exam to keep up
your stamina: slow-release carbohydrates
and a good protein.
• Make time to do a relaxation exercise;
listen to relaxing music if it helps.
• Provide plenty of time to travel to your
exam venue.
During the exam:
• Orientate yourself.
• Cultivate a positive, calm, focused state
of mind.
• Check that you have the right exam
paper (mistakes can happen).
• Read the instructions slowly, at least
twice.
• Use relaxation and breathing
techniques.
The following table can be used to assess
your chance of exam success:
