On the day of the exam

Some suggestions for students on the day of the day of the exam to help cope with stress.

• Plan ahead. Double check the time and place of the exam and leave plenty of time to get there.
• Make sure you have everything you need to write with etc, ready the day before (with spares).
• Eat a good breakfast.
• Go to the toilet just before the exam starts.
• When you get in to the exam you should read all the directions on the paper and all the questions first so you know exactly what you need to do.
• Plan out the time so there is enough for each question.
• Then tackle the easiest questions first. If there is something that is hard, it is best to leave it and come back to it, so you don't waste a lot of time when you could be doing another question well.
• At the end almost everyone remembers something they wish they had said or done. It is very rare for anyone to do a perfect exam. Even if you feel you did badly on the day, you can't change what is past - but you will have lots more opportunities to do well in your life.
• Plan for a safe wind-down activity after the exams, eg some physical exercise, a get together at home with friends etc.