THE INSPIRER

Some ways to help you attain even more success during this time of challenge

Have a clear sense of purpose with your exams. Set out exactly the mark that you working towards as opposed to just studying to “see what mark I get”. This alone gives you a clear sense of direction and puts your mind in a frame of achievement.

During these crucial and challenging times you need to manage your energy levels more than anything. The more energy you have the more you can accomplish thus gaining you more time and more success.

Exercise will help boost your energy levels, clear your mind and relieve stress. Walking, cycling, swimming, indoor soccer and dancing are all effective ways of exercising.

Craete a timetable to monitor your progress. ALWAYS allocate adequate time for fun and relaxation as well.

While revising a subject, practise writing. This would give you an actual simulation of the examination itself. Plan your revision and complete it in time. This gives you a sense of achievement and builds your confidence.

Set realistic targets of what you can achieve in the time available.

Spend as much time on recall as on reading. Practise by writing answers as you would do in the exam. This will help you remember the important points when you answer each paper.

Practise writing answers under exam conditions. Take two hour tests, without a break in between, preferably at the same time as that of the exam. This will help your body clock adjust to the examination time and conditions.

To prevent mental fatigue, take a short break as soon as you notice your mind is losing concentration. Stick to activities that do not break your study continuum during these breaks. Avoid television and loud music. You will then be able to come back to your revision refreshed.

It is important to relax. Your mind and body perform at their best only if you get adequate rest.

Regular eight hours of sleep is mandatory for the body to function well. Also, sleep at a regular time; don’t alter your sleeping cycle.

It is not important whether you study late or get up early, as long as you get into the habit of being most alert at the same time as that of the exam.

Stop working at least an hour before bedtime. You will find it helpful to do some light exercises, which is particularly effective in relieving stress.

Food rich in vitamins and proteins, such as green leafy salads and fresh fruits, are a must.

The nutrients will help your brain stay sharp. Avoid food with high fat content.

Don’t drink too much coffee, tea or fizzy drinks. Caffeine will keep you up and reduce the clarity of your thinking.

Keep all unimportant issues at bay.

Right now, your examinations is your only focus. Stay away from distractions that will cause loss of concentration or unwanted anxiety. Stick to activities that do not break your study continuum. Your friends and family must be made aware of not distracting you with things unrelated you your exams.

Spend time with people who have a positive effect. It will rub off on you.  Spend few moments daily reflecting on all the things that went RIGHT and all the good that come out of your studying.

Avoid negative thoughts, such as ‘Everyone else seems better organised, while I’m struggling.’ Challenge such thoughts with positive thinking; for example, ‘I have done well in exams before.’

Have a winning Attitude. You control your thoughts and your thoughts DO NOT control you.

Practise deep breathing, meditation and yoga as forms of relaxation. They help your body relax and reduce stress. Alternately, take a brisk walk in fresh air after your day’s revision is over.

Make dua before you start studying. Dua will help you increase confidence and reduce your stress as well.

And yes, lots of luck with those exams.