is a factor that affects us all at some point or another. This pressure is generally created from a need to succeed.
You may feel as if underachievement will leave your family, friends and teachers disappointed and let down. This fear of failure and worry is completely normal.
Many people experience this to one degree or another.
Usually, you may find that a little anxiety and worry can help motivate you and spur you on . but if these feelings
intensify make sure that you try to talk to someone about it.
Exam pressure can affect you in a number of ways. Many people go through the same things; it is perfectly normal, so don't be afraid to ask for help.
Symptoms can vary in their severity, some of these include:
- Irregular sleep patterns
- Feeling sick
- Diarrhoea
- Irritability
- Forgetfulness
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Blurred Vision
- Poor appetite
- Social withdrawal
- An overwhelming feeling of not being able to cope
Many symptoms of exam pressure can be easily managed when recognised. The key to coping with exam pressure is to be organised.
Here are a few tips:
- Make sure you know your exam dates well in advance
- Create a revision timetable weeks before the exams
- Outline the modules to be revised
- Identify your weaknesses - these will need more time
- Find a revision tactic that works for you, - writing notes, flow charts, revision cards etc
- Repeat sections you are unsure of in order to feel confident
- Talk to your lecturers if you don't understand the work or can't meet a deadline
- Test your friends and get them to test you - make a night of it with pizza!
- Take short breaks
- Ensure you don't miss meals and have lots to drink (not alcohol !!!)
- Finally, try not to worry (relax!)
Peers and friends can also help - you may find that they are also experiencing the anxieties of exam pressure. Revising together and discussing topic areas in a group can help as you may find that some people will be better at certain topic areas than others, each of you will be able to support each other through your weaker areas.
Family, parents and siblings can often offer support too. These people are the closest to you and offer unconditional support throughout life, just a word of reassurance can go a long way when suffering with exam stress.
In some cases however families can also be the cause of pressure, for such situations it can be useful to flag up the pressure and the negative affect it may be having on you to those concerned as they may not realise how anxious they are making you feel.
Top of page 
Text only to print
