Stressed out about the exams? Read psychologist Magnus' five best advice!
Many students may feel extra stressed as the exam approaches. Magnus Lia is a psychologist at SSN Health, and gives you his best advice!
Stress, preparation and staying away from googling "how to study for exams?"
As sure as spring arrives and the days turn brighter, examination stress builds up – almost in line with the rising temperature outdoors.
You may be thinking that “I didn’t manage to stick to my resolution of starting reading and preparations early yet again.” And isn’t Google a good friend in such times of need? Surely there must be good advice to be found here?
Frustratingly, the advice mostly confirms what you’re thinking you already should have done, like “starting early,” “have a good reading plan throughout the term,” “circadian rhythm, diet, exercise,” etc.
This doesn’t exactly help to improve your motivation, because it might already be too late for long-term preparation.
So what exactly is a good idea to do (apart from putting your phone down)?
These advice are safe
As you may discover this article via a Google search, you should know that there is a professional behind the advice given here. Magnus Lia is a psychologist at SSN Health, and has extensive experience in talking to students.
Read psychologist Magnus’s five best recommendations for cramming before exams:
1. Concentrate on what you can actually change!
This entails accepting the situation for what it is. There’s nothing to be done about the past, but on the other hand, what you choose to do with the time that’s left is really important. This is true whether there are four days or four weeks left until the exam.
2. Make priorities!
Try to gain an overview of the subject matter and make some choices you choose to focus on. There can often be a lot to gain from looking at presentations from lectures and not least topics from previous exam papers. Work on one thing at a time. Plan your days!
3. Make allies of fellow students!
It’s always a good idea to work with others. It’s binding, there’s a social benefit and you can learn from each other.
4. Vary methods!
Read, discuss, say things out loud, it provides a deeper understanding. Do old exam papers. This will train you to apply knowledge that gives you a good preparation to the actual exam. Take a break when your concentration starts to wane.
5. Make room for other activities!
Relaxation is essential for recovery and well-being. It also reduces stress. Nobody can be efficient continuously over a long period of time, and it’s better to include a few breaks. Going for a walk, some exercise or visiting a cafe might be what you need to prepare body and mind to accept more knowledge.
Good luck with your exams!
Keen on getting more good advice from our psychologists?
Magnus Lia
Psychologist
Magnus is a psychologist and has experience from working with all age groups. He is particularly interested in sense of accomplishment and how this can contribute to well-being and quality of life. Magnus is passionate about how one can better ones good mental health, and is also enthusiastic about working out, with an additional bachelor's degree in sports.
