Managing exam pressure

You’ve been working hard all year to achieve your NCEA, and with exams just around the corner you might be getting a bit anxious about achieving the results you want.

Sometimes a little pressure can help you perform well, but generally speaking, the better you prepare for exams the better you will feel. The secret is to manage stress.

Your school is the first place to look for support and information. There are also lots of resources online that offer useful advice and help you plan what you need to do before and during exams, and it is always good just to talk to someone.

It’s important that you don’t continue to worry about an exam after it is over. Instead, focus on getting prepared for your remaining exams.

If you’re finding things are getting on top of you here’s a quick summary of how to prepare for your exams and some useful resources.

More information on study stress can be found on the Lowdown website.

Go to study stress on the Lowdown website (external link)

Make a plan

Work out how you study most effectively (when, where and how).
Plan a schedule. Set study periods of 30 to 50 minutes followed by a 15-minute break.
At the weekend, you can repeat this schedule with a specific learning goal through the day.

While you're studying

Set up an organised area to study.
Switch your phone to flight mode and use it only during breaks.
Mix it up - write rather than type notes or say them aloud and play them back.
Work with classmates in study groups or reviewing work to help each other.

Find more study tips on the Massey University website (external link)

Apps that can help you study effectively (external link)

Stay healthy

As the saying goes, healthy body, healthy mind – so eat well.
Build in time for relaxation and fun, fresh air and physical activity.
Get enough sleep.
Talk to your classmates and family about how they manage stress.

On the day

Check the time and location of the exam, and get there early after a good night’s sleep and a good breakfast or lunch.
Do a light revision.
Visualise being calm, do some deep breathing and avoid anyone who could stress you.
Find your seat and get comfy.
And remember if you think things didn’t go as well as you expected, talk to someone who can help you. Your teachers can support you to find ways to get to your goals.