Our Top 6 exam day strategies for success

Organising Students - Image of an exam paper and clock

Exam day can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can walk into the room feeling confident and prepared. While preparation in the lead-up to the exam is key, what you do on the day itself can also make a big difference. These strategies will not only help you stay calm, focused, and ready to perform at your best but also ensure you make the most of your time and knowledge.

Here’s our top 6 exam day strategies for success:

  1. Arrive early and prepared
    Arriving early helps reduce last-minute stress, and being prepared with all necessary materials (like pens, a calculator) will boost your confidence from the start.
  2. Stay calm with breathing exercises
    Nerves are normal on exam day, but managing them is key. Take a few moments before the exam to practice deep breathing. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale through your mouth. This simple exercise can help reduce anxiety and clear your mind.
  3. Read the instructions carefully
    Before diving into the questions, take a few minutes to read all instructions carefully. Make sure you understand what’s being asked and allocate time accordingly. If you have reading time, use it wisely by planning your responses and mentally preparing your approach.
  4. Start with what you know
    Begin by answering questions you feel confident about. This will build momentum and give you a mental boost. Once you’ve completed those, you can return to more challenging questions with more time and focus.
  5. Manage your time wisely
    Keep an eye on the clock throughout the exam. Allocate time to each section or question based on its marks or importance. If you get stuck on a question, move on and come back to it later.  If you finish early, use any remaining time to review your answers. Check for missed questions, careless mistakes, or areas where you could improve your response. Make the most of every minute.
  6. Only worry about yourself
    During exams it is also important to ignore what other students are doing and their progress – just focus on yourself and what is in your own control.

Remember, exams are just one part of your academic journey. By following these strategies, you’ll be giving yourself the best chance to perform well on the day. No matter the outcome, each exam is an opportunity to learn and improve for the future. Stay positive, focus on doing your best, and know that every step brings you closer to achieving your goals.

If you’re looking for even more tips on how to prepare for exams, check out our blog on 10 Key Strategies for Exam Success: Learn, Prepare, and Reach Your Full Potential. These strategies will help you set a strong foundation in the lead-up to exam day, ensuring you’re fully prepared when it matters most.

To learn more about how we support students and equip them with the necessary tools, skills and strategies please get in touch.

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