Exam Paper Pressure

Exam Paper Pressure – How to Handle it!

In this blog post we look at the stress completing your exam paper may cause you. We also give you several tips on how to handle the pressure and maximize your performance on the day.

Revising for exams can be tough going even for the most diligent individual but as we all know hard work tends to pay off! For months now you have been hitting the books, packing in the hours of study and lo and behold you have finally got there, well almost! You have arrived at exam day. Just when you thought the worst was behind you, your brain starts to throw up a range of negative thoughts such as ‘What if I don’t get time to finish the exam fully?’ or ‘Will I not be able to cope with the pressure of doing the exam?’. We realize exams can be daunting so we have put together 8 tips on how to relieve any anxiety you may feel when doing your examinations.

Here are our 8 Tips on How to Handle the Pressures of Exam Day

  1. Be Prepared for your Exam: Start the day with a good breakfast. Arrive early to the exam, making sure you have all the necessary stationery with you such as pens, rulers, calculators and so forth. Bring a bottle of water with you also.
  2. Arrive Early: Make sure to leave your home early to allow for any unexpected delays.
  3. Positive Thinking: This is very important. You are about to start your exam there is no further revision or study you can do so you must make the most of the knowledge you have. Avoid negative thoughts such as ‘I will not do well’, ‘I will not get enough points to secure my college place’, and so forth. Remain focused and positive. Try and avoid other students who are panicking or acting negative towards the exam.
  4. Read the Questions Carefully: When you are asked to begin your exam take the time to read each question thoroughly. If anything is unclear ask for clarification from the exam supervisor.
  5. Allocate Time to Each Question: When you receive your exam papers, be smart; allocate the appropriate amount of time to each question that is relevant to the marks been awarded for it. If a question is allocated 20% of the overall marks allocate 20% of your time to it. Also allow some time at the end of the exam to review your answers incase you need to make changes.
  6. Order of Questions Answered: It is likely some of the questions on the exam will be easier for you than others. Start with the ones you are think you know best. This will give you better confidence to tackle the more difficult questions when you come to them.
  7. Answer Every Question: Do not be tempted to leave any questions unanswered no matter how difficult they may seem. Give it your best shot. You may pick up some marks. Also, when you begin to put things down on paper more details may come to you.
  8. Relax and Move on: When the exam is finished try not to spend too much time checking your answers and comparing what you wrote with other students. Instead, try and relax and give yourself a break and then focus your attention on the next exam. Remember exams such as the Junior Cycle and Leaving Cert take place over several weeks so pace yourself.

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