Exam: Just the sound of this word makes my spine tingle. Am I correct? When the date is announced, exam anxiety begins and lasts through the last day. Who could forget the day before our exams, when it seemed as though we had wings to soar! What a joyful moment, as if passing our examinations were the only thing that mattered.
Exams were invented in the 19th century by American industrialist and philanthropist Henry Fischel, who probably had no idea how widespread this apprehension would become among students.
Has exam anxiety seized you? Chill. Exams assist us in assessing our knowledge and our ability to apply what we have read to solve issues. Try to approach exams with a proper, positive, and proper attitude because this will help you remain calm.
You are under a lot of pressure from your family, your school, and well-wishers. You start to have ideas about exams like the ramifications of the results, the fear of falling short of others’ expectations, and many other things. All these emotions are normal to experience. However, you must set all of this aside and work quickly and diligently. The saying “The one who wins is the one who thinks he can” should always be kept in mind.
What is Exam Phobia?
Exam phobia, as the name implies, is today’s term for the fear of exams that affects students of all ages. In other situations, it might drive them toward worry and sadness. They avoid a situation because of an overwhelming, unexplainable fear of it. It’s critical to overcome exam anxiety. If you are trying for NEET then this Study Material for NEET can help you.
Causes of Exam Fear
The following are some of the most typical causes of exam phobia:
- Having a fear of failing tests
- The fear of disappointing parents and teachers
- A lack of confidence
- Certain subjects may be difficult due to a lack of knowledge
- Studying is difficult due to inability to concentrate or memorize
- The state of being negative
- Being compared to other students, etc.
Common symptoms of exam fear:
Exam anxiety might wreck us. Numerous factors, including inadequate planning and failure-related worry, can contribute to this anxiety. It is crucial to be able to control one’s fear. If you have any of the following symptoms, take precautions and watch out.
Anger, perspiration, high blood pressure, headache, fear, unfavourable thoughts, panic attacks, rapid heartbeat, and even exam fever prior to the test day. Exam anxiety has an impact on a person’s physical and emotional health.
What is the best way to overcome exam fear?
Exam anxiety frequently results in subpar academic performance, which raises anxiety levels. For students, education is crucial, but not at the expense of worry and anxiety. Many students experience exam anxiety and anger during the exams because they are afraid to take the tests. Common worry and dread are acceptable, but if they reach a certain level, it can be harmful to the student’s and their parents’ mental and physical health. So, here’s how to get over your exam phobia. Look at this:
Prepare a schedule
Students frequently emulate and compare themselves to other students or societal norms, which makes them feel inadequate and increases their exam anxiety. But it’s crucial to remember that every person is unique. As a result, you should study in accordance with your own schedule.
A study plan should be created
While studying for the examinations, create a plan based on the areas you need to pay more attention to and the subjects you are strong in. When reviewing, employ flashcards, flowcharts, graphs, and drawings since these can help you overcome exam anxiety, save time, and aid in last-minute preparations.
Early Revision
Students should begin their revision as soon as possible because many put it off until the last minute, which can cause exam anxiety. Starting your review at least three to four days before the exam will assist you to clarify any concepts you may have and eliminate any remaining concerns.
Each subject must be given proper attention
The most efficient method for overcoming exam anxiety in particular courses is to give each subject the attention it deserves rather than juggling and studying all the subjects. You can finish the curriculum on time if you concentrate on one subject at a time.
Make notes that are concise and to the point
Writing down significant facts, equations, dates, persons, situations, or other information as you study or review a chapter is one of the most well-liked anxiety-relieving strategies. This will be beneficial for your last round of revision and before you walk into the exam room.
Follow These Tips To Stay On Top
A student who is experiencing test fear will not be able to perform well on the exam since they will not be focused. Here are some suggestions to aid students in sharpening their concentration. Look at this:
It’s Essential to Get Proper Sleep
To calm the body and mind and prevent weariness, it is recommended that all students get at least 8 to 9 hours of sleep per night. Create a schedule, then plan your entire day around it.
Doing Regular Meditation
One of the most effective, tried-and-true ways to lessen exam tension and anxiety is meditation. It has been demonstrated that through generating feel-good chemicals, meditation improves mood and lowers levels of weariness and stress. Additionally, it enhances memory, revives vitality, and promotes attention, which effectively enhances schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and sports.
Don’t Forget To Take Breaks
Taking enough breaks while studying is crucial, as studying nonstop for long periods of time tyres the mind and is bad for physical health. Schedule ample downtime for breaks. Take a stroll, chat with friends, listen to your favourite music, or do yoga. It will assist in calming both your body and mind.
Make sure to avoid comparisons
Many students compare their academic achievement, level of preparation, grades, number of study hours, etc., with that of other students. It must be avoided in order to lessen exam phobia because it can cause unneeded tension and worry. Instead, concentrate on your own preparation and make efficient use of your time.
Eating Healthy Food
Students sometimes disregard their physical health by eating improperly during exams. Some students turn to packaged, processed foods and drinks as a coping mechanism for exam anxiety. They could become groggy and lightheaded as a result. Instead, they should consume healthy foods like eggs, dairy products, fruits, and green vegetables that are high in protein and good carbohydrates.
A professional counsellor should also be consulted if needed. You can overcome feelings, fears, and actions that are generating anxiety by talking about your problems with mental health professionals.
To overcome exam fear on exam day, follow these simple tips:
- Remain calm. Have faith and try your hardest.
- Avoid skipping breakfast.
- Before you depart for the exam, make sure you have all the necessary supplies, including pens and pencils.
- Arrive at the examination site early to prevent traffic and last-minute stress.
- Before you start to respond, maintain mental peace and attentively read the questions.
- When responding to questions, always respect the time limit.
- Give yourself 10 minutes to review the paper before turning it in.
Conclusion:
We were and are terrified of tests because they determine our path of action in life—whether in school, college, or an organization—rather than because we detest exams. Is this one of those horrifying nightmares that haunts us for a very long time in life? Is it not? If you don’t control your fear, it might ruin you. Relax! Exams are merely a tool for evaluating your abilities, knowledge, and recall. If you didn’t perform well on an exam, don’t be discouraged; instead, keep going. Face it with the proper attitude.
Exam fear is nothing new; it typically results from a lack of preparation and poor self-confidence in people, but it is manageable. While parents are expected to support their children by being aware of their emotional needs throughout the exam, students who have made the right preparation and strategy can lower exam anxiety and perform well on the exam. Examine prior years’ test questions, and keep a positive outlook. Some Mistakes to Avoid while JEE Preparation
