It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve sat in the exam hall, when the exam time rolls around, it always comes with heightened stress levels, making it really challenging to stay focused.
But maintaining focus is the only way to ensure that you do well. With exam time here again, and with it being one of the most important exam sessions of the year, especially for Matric students, our team here at Kleinwater College, a high school in Witbank, has created a guide on how to stay focused when stress threatens to derail your concentration.
When you feel your chest starting to tighten just as you pick up your pen to start writing your answers, keep these tips in mind:
Read the Instructions Carefully: Before you begin, take a moment to read the instructions thoroughly. Understand the structure of the exam, the allocation of time, and any specific guidelines provided by the examiner. Clarity on what’s expected will help you approach the questions with confidence.
Organise Your Thoughts: Start by quickly jotting down key points or an outline for longer responses. This brief organisation can provide a roadmap for your answers, preventing you from feeling overwhelmed and ensuring a logical flow of ideas.
Manage Your Time Wisely: Allocate a specific amount of time for each question and stick to it. If you find yourself spending too much time on one question, make a note to come back to it later if possible. Effective time management ensures that you cover all sections of the exam.
Focus on the Present Question: When you move on to a new question, shift your focus entirely to that question. Avoid thinking about previous questions or anticipating what comes next. Concentrate on the task at hand to maximise your cognitive resources.
Use Breaks Strategically: If the exam includes breaks, use them strategically. Take a few moments to close your eyes, practice deep breathing, or stretch to refresh your mind. Avoid discussing the exam with others during breaks to prevent unnecessary stress.
Stay Positive and Calm: Negative thoughts can be distracting. If you encounter a challenging question, take a deep breath, stay calm, and approach it with a positive mindset. Remind yourself that you’ve prepared for this moment and that you are capable of overcoming difficulties.
Avoid Perfectionism: While striving for accuracy is important, don’t let perfectionism hinder your progress. If you’re unsure about a particular answer, make your best attempt and move on. You can always revisit it if time allows.
Use Scratch Paper: If allowed, use scratch paper to jot down rough calculations, ideas, or keywords. Having a designated space for quick notes can free up mental bandwidth and make it easier to focus on the writing itself.
Revisit and Revise if Time Permits: If time allows, revisit your answers for revision. Check for any errors, add details where necessary, and ensure clarity in your responses. However, be mindful of the overall time limit and allocate your revision time wisely.
Stay Hydrated and Sit Comfortably: You should make sure that you have water available during the exam to stay hydrated. Additionally, sit comfortably with good posture to prevent physical discomfort that could distract you from the task at hand.
Prioritise Answer Quality Over Quantity: Rather than rushing to complete every question, focus on providing quality responses. A well-thought-out, articulate answer is more valuable than a rushed and incomplete one.
Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge your achievements as you progress through the exam. Crossing off completed questions or sections can boost your confidence and motivate you to continue with a positive mindset.