It’s exams time. Are you ready?

Your lessons are almost over, the coursework has been handed in, and now it’s time for the final challenge – your exams. Are you feeling ready?

Hopefully your revision in the lead up has gone well. But even if it has, it’s likely there will still be a heap of nerves and stress to overcome on the day, and that’s where we come in! At City of Portsmouth College, we want to help you out with our own hints and tips to excel this exam season.

Just breathe

Sounds a bit too simple, doesn’t it? But regulated breathing techniques can really help with the nerves you’re feeling, and get you back on track if you feel like things aren’t going well. A really effective technique is called box breathing, where you inhale, hold, exhale and again hold – each one for just a few seconds, and repeat. Science shows it helps you improve your focus and reduce feelings of panic. Why not practice it now before your exams to get used to the feeling.

Fuel your brain…

The temptation might be to not bother with a good breakfast if you’re feeling nervous, or to turn to an energy drink, but actually your best bet is to eat something that will give you energy throughout your exam. You know how marathon runners “carb load” before a race? That’s to make sure they don’t run out of steam before the end. And the same goes for your brain – it’s going to get a huge workout in your exams, so something like a bowl of porridge and a banana will be perfect to keep your brain in tip-top condition throughout!

…and rest.

Sleep – and being well rested – is the best way to recharge your mind, body and soul during this time. So rather than staying up late cramming in revision, give yourself a finish time that allows you to unwind and relax before bed. And forgive us for nagging, but put your phone down as well – the blue light from your screen will interfere with your ability to properly switch off. If you’re really having trouble sleeping, speak to your doctor.

Trust the process

If you’ve been revising steadily, great! If you’ve left it late, don’t panic. Either way, you’ll be surprised how much information you already hold in that brilliant mind of yours! Don’t doubt your abilities or your knowledge – cramming to the last minute only adds to the stress you might be feeling and chances are you’ll turn over that exam paper and the answer will come naturally.

One day at a time

There’s a lot of exams coming up for you and when you look at them as a whole, it’s pretty overwhelming. If you can, try to approach them as small steps towards the final destination, one at a time. If you’re in an exam and preoccupied with another one down the line, it’ll affect your focus and heighten feelings of stress or even panic. By dealing only with what’s in front of you, you can zone in and do your best.

And finally…treat yourself!

All this hard work has to come with some rewards, right? So, plan in for some treats along the way. Whether that’s a bubble tea with friends, a trip to the cinema, a workout, or a cheeky takeaway – taking a break from the exam bubble and nourishing your soul with things that make you happy is so vitally important.

Everyone at City of Portsmouth College wishes you all the very best of luck for your exams – go be brilliant!