It’s that dreary time of the year when some kids just want to pull the blanket over their heads and vanish — like their favourite cartoon characters who magically disappear when trouble shows up. They’d rather reappear once exams are over, hoping to hear they’ve passed with flying colours and can step into the next class without a worry in the world.

On the other hand, some kids are just so enthusiastic that the challenges exams bring fills them with excitement, but we all know this lot is rare! Let’s talk about those in the majority, who dread the exam monster.

Yes, this is the time for which you’ve been prepared all year at school, as the final examinations shape your future, determine your grades and make you realise the true weight of all the lessons you have learnt… how much you have actually understood, and how well you can apply that knowledge under pressure.

Whether you’re in the middle of your exams or the exams are looming nearer and nearer, I hope you haven’t lost your cool to give this academic year a proud end.

Let’s have a quick roundup and this isn’t to stress you out, but to help you figure out where to tweak things.

Are you following a routine?

If yes, great! If not, it’s never too late to start. Even a simple plan for the next few days can help. Set a study slot, keep it consistent and make sure you’re covering both your strengths and the topics that still feel hazy.

Although managing time is not something new, we keep reminding ourselves that time management is the key not just for success, but to keeping most of our problems in check. If not success, at least it brings a sense of control over the chaos around us.

So, keep your daily routine in check. Don’t break it for just anything. Select a time that suits you best, for instance, afternoon and evening, but for some, the time after dinner seems like a perfect time. Whatever you choose, just stay focused, study and revise.

What is an effective study schedule?

Well, it’s simple: to make things effective, you need to keep clear goals. Break your syllabus into smaller, manageable parts. Since time is short, focus on daily goals like “finish chapter three of biology by 5 p.m.” Keep it specific and realistic.

• Effective routine also involves healthy eating habits, a good night’s sleep. Don’t skip your meals and don’t cut down on your sleep to study late nights. Sleep-deprived brains don’t perform well. A fresh mind can understand and recall far more than a tired one cramming at 2 a.m.

• It’s often said, start revising with the difficult subject or topics. Although it’s tempting to focus only on the subjects you love or feel confident in, give equal time to the ones that worry you. Prioritise what needs your attention ‘now’, not what feels comfortable.

• Also, don’t just read passively. Write things down or explain a topic to someone else, for instance, your friend, sibling or even your parents. That’s when you really know you’ve understood something. The other person will help with whatever you missed out on.

• Short breaks in between study routines are a must. Don’t sit for hours like a robot. A 5-10-minute walk, some fresh air or even a quick stretch helps your mind reset.

• Even if you miss a goal or fall behind a bit, don’t panic. Just get back on track. What matters is consistency, not perfection.

Group study vs solo study

I remember during school, group study used to be something we looked forward to so that we could sit together and have a chat. But there were also moments in which some of us would bring something new to the table. No competition, just learning. Sometimes, one person’s explanation would feel like a light bulb moment for everyone.

Collaborative learning works! It gives you new ways to understand topics, and honestly, when your friend finishes a topic, it pushes you to catch up too.

Is solo study for you?

However, solo study has its own benefits. You go at your own pace. You can dive deeper into things you find hard. No need to wait or adjust to someone else’s routine. It’s great for concentration and memorisation. Plus, it builds discipline and independence.

My advice? Balance both. Do your regular studying solo, but for tricky topics, get together with a group (even virtually) to make things lighter and easier to digest.

What to do during exams

Exams can feel overwhelming, even if you’ve studied everything and can recite anything by heart. That last-minute panic? It creeps in no matter what. At this moment, you need to remind yourself that you’ve done your part, and now it’s time to breathe.

Tell yourself, “What I’ve studied is enough.” Don’t let those “I should’ve studied more” thoughts mess with your head. They only build pressure and take away your peace. And when you feel shaky, just say to yourself, “You’re more capable than you think and you’ve got this!”

A lot of students feel so anxious during exams that their blood sugar levels drop, making them feel dizzy or drained. Water keeps your circulation steady and your mind clear. So keep a bottle of water with you always.

Don’t forget your essential stationery items: Keep your stationery, ID cards, admit slips, etc., ready. And also keep an extra set of stationery items with you to avoid last-minute panic.

Easy questions first: An old but quite wise advice is to attempt the easy questions first in exams. As you get the simpler questions out of the way, you will have more time for the harder ones.

Read questions carefully: Before answering, take a moment to read the question carefully. Pay close attention to keywords like “explain,” “compare,” or “describe.” They’re there for a reason and tell you exactly what the examiner expects.

I still remember making this mistake myself. I rushed through a question that said “briefly describe,” and instead of giving a clear, to-the-point answer, I ended up writing two whole pages. Not only did it waste my time and energy, but I probably lost marks too. Why? Because your teacher can tell when you’re rambling or trying to impress instead of answering what’s actually asked.

So don’t overwrite, be smart, stay focused and write what’s needed. Clear and relevant answers always win!

Stay positive: Positivity is the key to staying focused and confident. Remember, exams are just one part of your journey, not the whole story. If you’ve put in the work, trust yourself that you have done your best. In the end, it’s not just about marks, it’s about growth, learning and stepping into the next chapter with confidence.

Remember, kids, you’re not alone in this. Everyone’s struggling in their own way, but the difference lies in how you pick yourself up and keep going. These exams are tough, yes, but you are tougher.

Good luck! You’ve got this.

Published in Dawn, Young World, April 26th, 2025