With GCSE and A Level exams in full swing, we know that this time of year is a particularly demanding time for many young people.
Exam season can bring pressure, anxiety, and self-doubt – so we want to remind you: your wellbeing always comes first. Here are five practical tips to help you or a young person you know to manage stress, stay balanced, and maintain wellbeing while preparing for exams.
1. Find a Study Style That Works For You
Everyone learns differently. Some people thrive with flashcards, while others prefer mind maps, notes, or group study sessions. The key is to experiment with different methods and find what works best for you. Don’t force yourself into a one-size-fits-all study routine. Whether it’s rewriting your notes, recording audio summaries, or practicing past papers, use the technique that helps you understand and retain information most effectively. That way, you’ll be able to revise to the best of your ability.
2. Set Realistic, Manageable Goals
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you’re faced with a mountain of study material, but trust us – trying to cram 10 topics into one day of revision WONT’T WORK! Breaking your workload down into manageable chunks can make a huge difference. Instead of thinking “I need to revise everything,” set specific and realistic goals for each study session. Maybe you could aim to complete one topic or a few practice questions daily rather than trying to tackle everything at once. Small, achievable goals will keep you motivated and give you a sense of progress, even if the exam is still weeks away.
3. Use a Schedule to Structure and Plan Your Time
This one might seem obvious, but time management really is key when it comes to exam prep. Use a calendar or planner to map out your days of revision, holding different chunks of time for different topics or subjects. A well-structured plan like this will help you stay on track and avoid the stress of last-minute cramming. Make sure to allocate more time to subjects or topics that you find more challenging, and don’t forget to include time for a good night’s sleep – your brain needs rest to absorb and retain information!
4. Take Regular Breaks to Avoid Burnout
In conjunction with tip number 3: remember to schedule in regular breaks from your revision schedule! Pushing yourself to study for hours on end without a break isn’t productive in the long run. Your brain needs rest to process information and stay focused. Use your breaks to stretch, take a walk, or even chat with a friend to refresh your mind before diving back into your work.
5. Remember: Your Worth Is Not Defined by Your Grades!
It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of exams, but it’s important to remember that your grades do not define your worth. You are more than a score. Take a step back and keep perspective – your future success and happiness aren’t solely determined by how you perform on one single exam. Focus on doing your best, but don’t put too much pressure on yourself. You’re allowed to make mistakes, and it’s okay to take breaks when needed.
Exams may feel like a stressful time, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can navigate them with confidence. Find a study method that suits you, set realistic goals, manage your time effectively, and always remember that your mental health is just as important as your academic success.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to someone. Reach out to a friend, teacher, or support service. You’re not alone. You can also access our wellbeing and anxiety toolkits here.
