Exam season can feel overwhelming, but the Griffith Library team is here to support you! We’ve put together some practical tips to help reduce stress, keep you calm, and boost your confidence as exam day approaches.
- Get organised early. Find out what you’ll need for your exam well in advance. Calculator? Check that it’s working! Open book exam? Make sure you have the right textbook. Pencil required? Double-check you’ve got the correct grade. Pack everything the night before, and don’t forget your ID!
- Scope out your exam location. If you’re not familiar with where your exam is being held, do a practice run beforehand. Work out how long it takes to get there and add some buffer time so you can arrive relaxed and ready. For online exams, make sure you have access to a quiet space with a reliable computer and strong internet connection.
- Fuel your brain right. While junk food might be tempting during study sessions, nutritious, well-balanced meals will do wonders for your concentration and memory. Eat a good breakfast or lunch on exam day and save that celebratory treat for afterwards! Stay hydrated in the days leading up to your exam, but don’t overdo it right before—you don’t want to be making multiple bathroom trips!
- Prioritise sleep. Cramming late into the night before your exam isn’t worth it. A solid night’s sleep will recharge both your body and mind, helping you perform at your best.
- Dress for success (and comfort). Wear comfortable clothing and bring a jacket in case the exam room is chilly. Try to avoid noisy fabrics or jewellery that might distract you or others.
During the Exam
- Start with a quick scan. Take a few minutes to read through the entire exam to get a sense of what’s ahead. Read all instructions carefully so you understand exactly what’s being asked.
- Manage your time wisely. Plan how much time you’ll spend on each question, allocating more time to those that are worth more marks. Try to leave a few minutes at the end to review and polish your answers.
- Build momentum with easier questions. Tackle the questions you feel most confident about first—it’s a great way to boost your confidence and may free up extra time for the trickier ones.
You’ve got this! The entire Griffith Library team is cheering you on. Good luck with your exams!
