Enjoying Exams
Chathurie Nupearachchi
Physicist with good vibes while acting multiple roles as a lecturer, researcher, education consultant, STEM activist, writer and speaker
It is indeed a tricky question to answer as most of the students including myself never enjoyed exams in my life up to A/L. But later on in my life, I used to look exams as challenges instead of being scared for them with stress or anxiety. Even though there are many distractions in the environment, 1) it is better to have a plan/time table with allocated time slots for each subject and stick to it with self-discipline (This is the toughest part and mind you I have been there!).
Next, 2) you need to identify your learning style. Remember some students have a mixture of learning styles whereas others have one style. For example, if you are a visual learner, then you can create charts, graphs, diagrams, figures and use highlighters to aid your learning style. If you are a kinesthetic learner, then you can really teach by imagining as a teacher/ professor to someone or you can pretend the action of teaching to objects. Even you can practice answering questions with your friends. If you are an auditory learner, then read your notes aloud, listen to audio books or even attend the lectures and listen with conscious attention.
Next, the most important thing is to 3) take breaks during the study period as you deserve it. It is a known fact that our brain does not work efficiently when it is exhausted.?Make sure to have a break for 10 min in every hour. You should be disciplined not to get distracted as well. Sometimes having a snack, nap, listen to music etc. can increase your productivity. I never encourage sleep deprivation as you need to have enough rest especially on the night before the exam. Normally, 6-8 hours of sleep can minimize your fatigue without creating a difficulty to wake up with a fresh mind to focus on your exam.
Just as a vehicle needs fuel to operate, you need food to function. So, 4) proper nutrition without junk food is essential during exam periods. Most of the time, thinner students with pale/haggard faces and dark circles around the eyes in examinations is a common sight for us. Therefore, skipping meals should be prohibited as a rule.
I believe 5) engage in a physical activity like swimming, walking, yoga, meditation or whatever you enjoy doing can destress your mind and body while keeping you active and agile. Because being on the same position for a long time can give you muscle cramps, eye pains, headaches etc. So, a physical activity should be built into your time table.
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You need to do the best that you can do in an exam. If it does not work as planned, then do not be too hard on yourself as it is not the end of the world. There can be alternative options, opportunities to re-sit/repeat exams and many more. You should not put yourself under too much pressure. So, 6) make up a reward system. It can be an experience (like a holiday, road trip, play a game, see a movie or party) or a present (gadget, jewels, clothes). Creating a reward will definitely boost your motivation and helps you to be optimistic about the exam.
Facing exams can be transformed into a joyful challenge if you change the way you perceive about them. Most of the time, we all view exams as a boring and lifeless experience. I believe once you get to know your learning style, you will stop struggling and start enjoying the exams as a part of learning process. I think planning well ahead in the three stages of pre-exam period, during the exam and post-exam period is the key to enjoy the exams (without waiting till the last minute). It is up to you to decide how much fun to be added to your exam preparation period as the level of enjoyment is relative from student to student depending on his/her personality.
Tip:
The following link explains 21 best study tips for exams in detail.