Dharmadhaj Sonowal
THE year is about to end and with exams being round the corner, it seems everyone, right from kids and parents to teachers and schools are undergoing a constant pressure and stress. Competition and peer pressure can take out the best, or the worst of a child, depending on how well the kid handles it. Before the examination, the students suspend pleasure giving activities. They do not go the playground; cancel their picnic and forget about cinemas. They are busy with their books; go on reading while sipping a cup of a tea; go on revising while lying in bed.
The fear of exam touches the highest point on the night before the examination. In the examination hall one feels that everything “I should have read that particular question “.The student feels disturbed and turns the pages of question paper hastily and rolls his eyes for the easiest at first.
However, some positive steps may help the examinees to reduce their stress and assist them in achieving their target.
Preparing a time-table: A well-planned day helps in better performance.Dividing the hours of day and allotting specific time slots to specific subjects can make the kids prepare and study easier.
Exercising : Students who do not regularly indulge in physical exercises or meditation are advised to bring about a slight change in their daily routine at least 1 month prior to their exams and wake up as early as possible. Then for sometime sit quietly with legs folded and closed eyes. Try to evaluate how much portion of studies have been completed and how much is yet to be finished. Exercises improve blood circulation, brings more oxygen into the body, which keeps the brain more active, and removes lethargy and sluggishness.
Practicing mock tests: Getting acquainted to what’s coming up is one of the best steps to take to ace that test. Practice mock test and previous question papers; it gives a good knowledge about the kind of questions that may come up, which chapters carry a greater mark weightage etc. Mock Tests are indeed helpful, since Practice makes a man perfect.
Taking a break: Constantly pressuring and overburdening oneself can have a negative and opposite effect on the exam score- trying to do too many things at a time without a break, will probably not get more than halfway through. Its better to take small 10-15 minute breaks in between every study session-play with pet or just simply walk around the house.
Sleeping properly: Getting adequate sleep is important, especially during exams, where the entire focus is on mental faculties.
Thinking positive: Last, but not the least, positive thinking, which may seem monotonous and boring to many of us, should be implemented during exams. Staying focused on stronger points,i n subjects which can be scored well, and standing with confidence. Merely the ‘I-can-do-it’ attitude can help to kill the fear.
