Are you feeling overwhelmed at the thought of studying for your exams?  

While pulling all-nighters and guzzling caffeinated drinks may seem like the only way to get through exams, it’s important to consider how your mental and physical wellbeing affects your studies. Your wellbeing is crucial to your success as you prepare for and sit your exams. That’s why the Library is here with a few suggestions to help you develop the time, energy and motivation to make the most of your exam preparation. 

Plan ahead 

Planning your week ahead of time can free up mental space and help you focus. Take a look at your exam schedule and the course content you need to study, then block out some study sessions on your calendar for each topic, learning module or course. You may also want to skim back through your notes and make a list of which concepts you’ll need to focus on during each session. 

Remember to schedule enough time away from studying too: meals, sleep, work, and downtime are crucial in providing balance. 

Prioritise quality sleep 

Getting the right amount of quality sleep is important if you want to learn and remember information—which are essential abilities when it comes to exam preparation. Aim for 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night to ensure your body and brain are well-rested, or slot in a 20 minute nap sometime before 3 pm if you need to.  

For more tips, read the Sleep matters info sheet. 

Eat well 

Cooking healthy and balanced meals is probably the last thing on your mind while studying, but when it comes to fueling your body and brain it’s important that the food you consume sustains you rather than simply stimulating you for a short period of time. Caffeine and sugar are stimulants that may give you energy in the short-term, but after they wear off you’ll likely find yourself crashing.    

To ensure you make it through the day with enough energy: 

  • start with a nutritious breakfast such as oats, eggs, fruit or yoghurt 
  • stay hydrated by keeping a water bottle handy 
  • choose healthy snacks such as dried fruit, almonds or popcorn 
  • consume caffeine, sugar and unhealthy foods in moderation. 

You can also check out Griffith SRC’s Student Cookbook for a range of nutritious tips and recipes. 

Try a change of scene 

Is staring at your small laptop screen giving you double-vision? The kitchen table just not cutting it? A comfortable and distraction-free study space can make all the difference, so if your current setup isn’t working, try a change of scene. The Library has plenty of desk space, computers, and comfy chairs for you to get to work or you can book a group study room for some extra privacy. 

If you need more variety, you could also study in a café, at a friend’s place or brave the cool weather and find a picnic table or grassy spot outside. Just make sure you have all the study supplies you need, such as Wi-Fi. 

Reward yourself 

Studying can seem like a real slog and the promise of good grades isn’t always enough motivation. If you need some extra incentive to make it through each study session, try planning little rewards for yourself. An episode of your new favourite TV show, a yummy treat or time spent gaming with friends provides something to look forward to—the difficult part is not giving in if you don’t meet your study goals. 

Writing down your study goals and rewards, or sharing them with other people, applies a bit of extra pressure to ensure you stay accountable.   

Reach out 

If you feel like you’re struggling with your studies or your wellbeing, Griffith has resources and services available to help you. 

The Library offers self-help resources about developing study skills, exam preparation and more. 

For support with your mental or physical wellbeing, check out the Online Health and Wellness Centre. Whether you’re dealing with stress and anxiety, kicking unhealthy habits or need urgent support, the Online Health and Wellness Centre can direct you to the appropriate resources and services to provide the help you need. 

If you’re unable to sit an exam due to medical, compassionate or extenuating circumstances, visit the Assessment applications webpage for information on deferring assessments or exams, special consideration and alternate exam sittings. For further guidance, contact Student Connect.