Exam stress busters

Exams, the bane of any student's life, can leave you ready to run for the hills.

Before you go to extremes, however, check out these top tips for relieving some of the stress they cause.

Be organised

It's not a myth that organisation on the outside helps organisation in the brain.

Studying in a tidy room, having your notes in order and knowing where to find all the resources you need can help avert those panic situations.

Sticking to a routine of revision and breaks helps keep your mind clear- revising solidly 9-5 won't do your stress levels any good!

Try out exam tips for more ideas.

Preparation

On the day, make sure you know where you're going for your exam and give yourself plenty of time to get there- 4Health points out that "on the morning of the exam, nerves can make you forget something important", so it's best to be prepared.

Make sure you have everything you need- pens, calculator, etc.- all sorted the day before, so there's one less thing to worry about on the day.

'Me' time

You might think you need to be revising all the time, but it's impossible for your brain to be permanently focused on your subject.

Laying off the drinking-every-night habit might be necessary to get through the exams without failing, but giving yourself the odd night off to spend with friends might just help calm you down.

Even reading a book or watching a movie for a couple of hours will take your mind off things and leave you recharged and ready to go.

Keep healthy

A healthy body equals a healthy mind, more equipped to deal with challenges and information.

Exercise is a well-known stress reliever- even a ten minute walk can clear the mind.

SupportLine suggests that you "make sure you get a period of exercise every day" such as cycling, swimming or dancing- "anything to get rid of the stress in your body."

Keep it in perspective

So it's not the easiest thing to appreciate when all that's ahead is exams, but try to remember that it's not the end of the world if you don't quite get the grade.

Resits are usually an option, and chances are that you probably know more stuff than you realise.

Have faith in your own abilities, and remember that there are always other options if it doesn't go as planned.