Exams might be stressful time for students but the right guidance and support can make them confidence for exam.
If you are a teacher, parent or a support person to a student then you can make a huge difference during this difficult time.
Here are some simple study tips in which you can guide students during exams.
1) Help them make a study plan
On of the best study tips to reduce stress during exams is to make a plan.
When students have a study plan they know what to and when to study. This keeps them organized and can avoid last minute panic.
Ways to make a study plan
a) Review the syllabus
See what topics are coming in the exam and prioritize the topics that need more attention.
b) Set up a timetable
Student should divide their day into time blocks for different subjects.
c) Don’t forget breaks
It is important to take small breaks so that they feel refreshed. Studying for long hours without a break can be boring & tiring.
d) Set daily goals
Small goals like completing a chapter , small paragraphs or few practice questions will help them stay on track.
2) Encourage active study
Just reading notes or books can sometimes be boring and ineffective. Active study is a great way to help students engage with the subject and remember it better.
Some ways of active study
a) Solve previous year question papers
Solving previous exam papers helps students understand the type & pattern of questions that might come in exam.
b) Summarize notes
Ask them to summarize whatever they read in their own language. This will help in remembering.
c) Use memory devices
Use techniques like short forms of words, tunes ,picture technique or poetry to remember difficult information.
3) Boost their confidence
Some student found exams are very scary and difficult therefore during this exam time it is very important to keep them motivated and confident.
Ways to boost confidence
a) Give encouragement
Remind them of their strengths and past good performance. Everyone has done well at one time or another.
b) Teach relaxation techniques
Simple methods like deep breathing or stretching exercises can calm them down and clear the mind.
c) Focus on effort
Remind them that the goal is to try their best and not to do everything right. Teach smart exam strategies. It is not just about what students know it is all about how they approach the exam.
Teach them some simple strategies so that they can face the exam with confidence.
4) Exam Strategies
a) Read the entire exam paper first
Suggest them to read all the questions quickly so that they can understand what is likely to come.
b) Attempt easy questions first
Suggest them to solve the questions they are easy & confident in first so that they can keep their morale up.
c) Use time wisely
Explain to them to use the time effectively so that all the questions can be solved on time.
d) Attempt all questions
Remind them that even if they feel not clear about a question, they should still attempt every question. Sometimes they may get partial marks.
5) Take care of health: sleep and food
Many students do not take care of their sleep and food during exam. But good physical health makes then refresh and active for exam.
Tips to stay healthy
a) Get good sleep
Make sure they get enough sleep.
b) Eat healthy food
Advise them to eat healthy food like fruits, vegetables and things beneficial for the brain.
c) Drink water
Remind them that it is important to drink plenty of water so that they can focus.
6) Review after the exam
After the exam is finish, it would be good if you discuss with the student how it went. This way they can reflect on their performance and prepare for the next time.
What to do after the exam
a) How was the result
Discuss how the exam went and in which areas there is a need for improvement.
b) Understand emotions
Ask them how they felt during the exam and help them clear any worries.
c) Celebrate effort
Cheer up for their effort and hard work no matter the result is.
Conclusion
Guiding students during exams is very important not only for studying but also for supporting them mentally and physically.
With the right guidance and a positive attitude, students can face exams with confidence and perform at their best.
With these simple study tips, teachers, parents and friends can guide students to success during exams. It’s all a question of being prepared, keeping calm and trying your best.