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Exams often feel like high-stakes events where success or failure seems to determine one’s academic future. For many students, this pressure can manifest as exam anxiety—a persistent fear or nervousness about upcoming tests.

Exam anxiety is a psychological and physiological response to a perceived threat of an upcoming exam. Feelings of fear, worry and affection categorise it.

The Impact of Exam Anxiety on Performance

 Exam anxiety negatively impacts your performance. When you are anxious, your ability to concentrate and focus vanishes or can be said to diminish.

Exam anxiety can affect your physical well-being. It can lead to rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, sleep, and even nausea.

Here are a few signs and symptoms to be aware of:

Physical

• Excessive sweating 
• Nausea, vomiting or digestive issues 
• Rapid heartbeat 
• Shortness of breath 
• Headaches 
• Panic attacks
•  

Emotional

• Self-doubt, insecurity 
• Fear, helplessness 
• Hopelessness 
• Anger or irritability 
• Negative self-talk 
• Racing thoughts 

Adopting a few techniques can help us deal with the pre-exam stress that one experiences. These include:

1. Preparation is the Key: Develop a study schedule that breaks down the syllabus into manageable chunks.

2. Create a study schedule: Break down the study material into manageable chunks, and allocate time for each topic.

3. Practice with mock exams: Familiarize with the exam format, timing, and question types to reduce anxiety on the actual exam day.

4. Review and revise regularly: Consistent revision helps solidify information in long-term memory, reducing anxiety caused by last-minute cramming.

5. Exercise regularly: Physical activity reduces stress and anxiety.

6. Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help brain consolidate information and reduce anxiety.                                                                                                                                                                
7. Take breaks: Make time for relaxation and leisure activities, such as reading, listening to music, or taking a walk. Breaks can help reduce burnout and anxiety.

8. Remember, overcoming exam anxiety takes time and practice. Be patient and don't hesitate to seek help. Learning how to manage exam anxiety has benefits that go beyond exams. It helps in improving academic performance, better mental health and increases self-confidence

Remember, overcoming exam anxiety takes time and practice. Be patient and don't hesitate to seek help. Learning how to manage exam anxiety has benefits that go beyond exams. It helps in improving academic performance, better mental health and increases self-confidence