Exam Success at CSU
Physical Preparation
The exam period can be a time where students are prone to stress and illness. It is a time when we cut back on some of the activities we enjoy and ignore our wellbeing to cope with the demands of study. Yes, there are some things that could be put on hold, but it is generally recognised that the maintenance of our physical wellbeing is not one of them.
Keeping healthy prior to and during the exam period is important for two reasons. Good physical health not only helps us cope better with stress but also helps us to maintain a healthy immune system. The exam period is a time when many students allow themselves to become run-down and become vulnerable to flues, coughs colds etc. So, look after your own health, particularly if you reside in a communal setting.
This does not mean joining the gym and taking up swimming in order to pass an exam. It does mean ensuring good eating and drinking habits, and getting adequate rest and exercise. The latter two will differ from individual to individual.
Following are some tips to consider:
- Monitor your intake of caffeinated beverages (coffee and coke) and cigarette intake. This combination is counter productive, making concentration difficult.
- Do not worry about the loss of a few hours sleep before an exam, but don't go into an exam tired.
- Do not take up severe and strenuous exercise before the exams. Use mild forms of exercise as study breaks.
- Eat your regular meals during the exam period, including breakfast, on examination days.
- Ensure that your place of study is well ventilated, especially when using heaters.
Ask yourself if you are likely to have a problem with any of these.
| Do you: | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|
| keep yourself awake with many cups of coffee? | ||
| increase your cigarette intake? | ||
| drink more alcohol than usual when you feel stressed? | ||
| stay up until the wee-small hours? | ||
| skip your usual exercise? | ||
| study without a break? | ||
| skip meals or resort to copious amounts of takeaway? |
If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are now aware of habits that may impede your performance in an exam. Doing something about it is another thing, but not all that difficult.