Productivity

Keeping a Balance in the Madness of Exam Time

Keeping a Balance in the Madness of Exam Time
The unfortunate thing about exams is that they’re set around the same time. They have their own season and unlike holidays, they are not exciting, but rather overwhelming and nerve racking. You have to study for several classes while dealing with your usual routine and personal life. Here are a few tips to balance all the aspects of your life during exam period.
1- Organize your schedule
You already have your evaluation dates, so you know how to structure your subjects. Although, if you have some exams that are not spaced out and are consecutive (e.g. one in the morning, then another one at night), you already know that you’ll be spending a lot of time studying and shuffling between two courses until you’ve crossed that bridge. To have consistency and certainty, write down everything on a calendar, so you know how your time is dedicated. Also, as tempting as it may be to see our loved ones, it’s better to plan things wisely until exams are done. Maybe just a coffee date instead of going to the movies or dinner, just so you can maximize all your time towards studying and don’t get swamped.
2- Set goals
You have lots to prepare, for which you need to set objectives. You need to be motivated to keep working through, and the best way to do so is to have a target you want to reach. So, make it either short term (e.g. have to know X many concepts by the end of the day) or long term (e.g. by the end of the week). With deadlines you can monitor your progress and know what to do with your time (so you don’t procrastinate after a while). Also, by setting goals, each time you attain them you’ll feel that you achieved something, which will help reduce your stress and perceive things in a positive way.
3- Unwind
Being a student and having a nervous breakdown go hand in hand. Everyone experiences it sometimes while they’re in college, it's inevitable. You get overwhelmed; you have too much to study for, exams are not spaced out and there’s the pressure of your grades. Also, the worry of how your future depends on it. Chances are you will experience breakdowns more than once. You cannot control exam schedules and materials, and sometimes they get the best and the worst of you. For your own health, and sanity, you need to take breaks after a certain interval. Not simply to breathe and catch up on social media, but one that will help you release some pressure and relax. Eat protein and vitamin filled snacks or meals, do small exercises, and drink lots of fluids. All these can be done without hassle, near your working station, and within half an hour. Like that, you won’t be running too late on your work, and will be able to improve your mental health and body quickly.

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