Taking Tests with Confidence

It is absolutely important that you do not come under stress during exams so as to remain healthy and perform brilliantly

Worrying about grades is absolutely normal given the degree of competition one has to face at every step in life. Getting admission to a college of choice is an extremely daunting task and the best way out is to score maximum marks so the cut off could be easily cleared. But one has to also make sure that it does not become a matter of life and death. Unnecessary pressure on the child should be avoided at all costs.

More often than not, stress becomes a part of young lives. Opting out of the game is, however, not an option. What you can do is adopt the right attitude. You need to give your best shot under the best conditions. So cut out stress from your life.  Remember, there is a difference between worrying and stress. Worrying about certain things keeps you alert and active. Stress, on the other hand, is a retarding factor.

Learn to recognise the symptoms of stress. Do you suffer from restlessness, headaches, dizziness, loss of appetite, increased heartbeat or insomnia?  These are symptoms that your body is reacting to the conditions of your mind. Here is what you can do to de-stress yourself when that exam schedule makes you tense:

• Take short naps: Power naps instantly revitalise your body and reduce stress. Lack of sleep is a common cause of stress.
• Exercise: Going out for a brisk walk is a good idea. When you are under stress, your muscles usually become too taut and it adds to the mental agony.
• Plan: Make small manageable plans. Don’t make grand plans. Don’t say, ‘I will do my geography projects between Monday and Wednesday.’ Even if that is your goal, make immediate plans like drawing a chart - covering the files – lunch – reading chapter 1 – making maps etc. As you keep crossing items off your list, your confidence level will boost and you’ll feel much more in control.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Alternate breathing, yoga, meditation keep stress at bay.  Practice these methods or at least one of them and make them a regular part of your life. It will help you react much better particularly in stressful periods such as exams.
• Eat healthy: You must avoid junk food, caffeine and eat at proper intervals. Tea and coffee are not stress busters! On the other hand, they pitch it up a notch or two. If you really like it, then don’t have more than a cup or two a day.
• Do not rush: Live the day in minutes and hours. Too much planning causes problems. Prioritise your work.
• Take your favourite pens and pencils: Taking your favourite stationery gives you a feeling of familiarity and preparedness.
• Do not panic: In case you cannot answer a question, do not panic. There is no reason to get stuck on one question, get stressed and distracted and run out of time. If you can’t answer one, relax; take a deep breath and move on to the next.