Here’s ten ways to cheat exam stress

For most students, there is one major speed bump between them and the December holidays: tears, screams and coffee addictions. However, this is not necessarily the only way to pass your exams with flying colours. Here is you can cheat exam stress.

• Create a healthy study environment

You will study more efficiently in a room that is well-lit, especially sun-lit. The natural light is less straining on your eyes. Clean your room – it is therapeutic and you will feel more at home and in control. Switch off the TV and your cellphone so as to not be distracted. If you’re paranoid that someone is looking for you, change your social media statuses to “studying, please do not disturb”.

• Sleep

Primary school pupils need 10 to 11 hours of sleep before an exam and high school pupils, 8-10 for optimal brain function and memory.Do not drink any stimulants, including caffeine or Ritalin, 5 to 6 hours before bed as they might disrupt your sleep.• Eat properlyEat a wholesome breakfast and keep snacking on fruit, veggies or fish every three hours. Your breakfast should include veggies, omega-3 (like fish), antioxidants and plenty of protein.

•Meditate and exercise

Studies have shown that meditating reduces stress levels and increases brain functions, like memory and calculating. You should therefore meditate before studying as well as before writing the test.Scientists also believe exercising for 20 minutes every day increases brain power and helps you relax – even if it’s just a walk.• Plan aheadRead through the subject’s objectives and set up a study schedule. Make sure you include all your objectives, allocating the most time to the hardest ones.

• Make associations

Do not underestimate the power of colour! If you need to memorise a list in order, arrange your colour pens in a specific order. Associate the colour with the item on the list and when you are in the exam room, order your pens in that order. You will remember the list in class.

• Take regular breaks

Breaks are important! Study for 40 minutes and take 20 minute breaks in-between. Go walk around the block or make some food. Just getyour mind as far away from your work as possible.

• Form study groups

When you struggle with a topic, one of the group members will probably be able to explain the work simply. Do the same if someone else in your group struggles. If you explain the work, you understand it better yourself and you also study.

• Sit up straight

Do not lie on your bed – you are bound to get tired. Sit up straight at a desk. Try not to slouch. Sitting on a stability ball helps with your posture and you can use it for exercise during breaks.

•Google work you don’t understand

Google is designed to explain things simply. If you’re missing work or couldn’t understand your teacher, just google your query.