Exams can be stressful for most students. The anxiety related to exams can be detrimental to both their physical and mental health. Some students prepare adequately for their exams but fail to perform their best when they enter the hall to write their exams. Some feel worried because they feel under-prepared and have not studied properly. And some others feel stressed out because of family and peer pressure. Being under the constant pressure of performing better can lead to massive burnout and not performing the way students would if the stress was rooted out. Hence, these few tips will help you get confident about your preparation and keep the anxiety and stress at bay. 


1) Make a routine - A timetable acts like a plan which gives direction to the students. Following a plan of action for a year for your board exams or other tests can help you cover your syllabus timely. This habit will cut down all the stress stemming from feeling underprepared. Sticking to a routine that gives importance to every subject, divides topics according to time slots, and has adequate breaks can help students immensely. A schedule like this helps students stay organized. It also helps to cover everything timely and leaves enough time for revisions. 


2) Keep yourself active and engage in physical exercises - One of the best ways to release stress is by engaging in physical activity. When you prepare for your exams, you sit and study for long hours. This habit can cause backaches, headaches, and eye strain. You can feel burnout and stress from learning. The moment you are working out, your body will release cortisol and help you feel energized and refreshed to study. Studies have also shown that physically active people can remember information faster and can grasp facts. Try taking short breaks in between your studying time to feel a bit relaxed and then resume studying. Hence, this way, your stress will stay at bay. 


3) Practice Breathing Exercises to relax - If you feel too stressed out and anxious, practice some breathing exercises. You can try the box breathing technique or the 4-7-8 method of breathing. These techniques help you calm down immediately. Take out ten minutes from your daily schedule to calm your mind by engaging in breathing exercises. These are proper tools to help keep stress at bay. If you couple this with daily meditation, then the effects will be better. Meditation makes you introspect and focus a lot on your inner self. It builds the student's capacity to stay focused and concentrated while studying. Hence, meditating every day can also increase your resolve to do better in your exams and your belief in yourself. 


4) Revise well for your exams- Go through all the ncert important questions and solutions from the internet. Do your revision from your class notes too. Revising helps you retain what you have studied and also makes you confident. Confidence will help you keep most of the stress at bay and help you give your best during the exams. Timely revisions are one of the best ways to score well in your exams. 


5) Take time off from social media platforms - Taking time off from social media will cut off the distractions. Do not use your phone or mindlessly scroll through Instagram reels or your Facebook feed. This habit will enhance your anxiety. You will soon realize that you are wasting your time on social media. Then you will feel guilty, and that can add to your stress. Avoid the virtual world for a few days before your exam and continue it until you go and sit for it. The only thing you should keep your focus on is your exam. 


6) Have realistic expectations for your preparation - If you have not studied throughout the year, topping the exams is difficult. Similarly, if you are weak in a subject and did not give enough time to improve yourself, it is hard to score exceptionally well in your exams. Try having realistic expectations right from the start. Do not stress yourself unnecessarily, expecting something that will never occur. Acceptance of your circumstance is the best way to tackle stress. On the other hand, if you are well prepared, then have faith in your preparation. 


7) Reward yourself for small achievements - You can follow this throughout your preparation. After completing each topic, you can give yourself a mini snack to feel a sense of success. This habit will not make you feel stressed out while studying. Instead, you will feel driven to complete your tasks well, as you have a reward waiting for you. Apart from doing this, always give yourself something for putting in so much effort after the exam. Pat your back and tell yourself that you deserve a small treat for giving your best. This way, you will not feel anxious before and after your exams and instead be content with how you tackle the exam. 


8) Consult a Mental Health Professional for stress management - If you feel you cannot handle the exam stress and the stress is taking a toll on your overall health, think of consulting a professional. Mental Health professionals do not deal only with severe mental health issues like anxiety and depression. They also help with time management, procrastination, productivity, and stress management. If you feel you cannot handle it yourself, reach out to a professional who can guide you and help you manage stress during your exams.


Do not feel defeated because your exams are coming near and you feel underprepared. Believe that whatever you have studied will bear its fruits. Do not panic before your exams. Keep yourself calm and composed, and be your cheerleader. Tell yourself that you will go and ace your exams. This positive approach will also help you do well in your exams.