Tips For Improving Your Exam Results

We’ve all experienced exams and the pressure that comes with them, but it can be extremely difficult to watch your child struggling without knowing how to help. If your child is looking for tips for improving exam results, read on further. From studying smarter to managing stress, these tips will help them get the most out of their exams.

Get a good night’s sleep

A good night's sleep before the exam is key. Not only will it help you feel refreshed and alert on the day, but research shows that getting plenty of high-quality sleep improves cognitive functioning and boosts the ability to apply knowledge in real life situations.

Get into a regular bedtime routine and ensure you’re giving your body time to rest and recuperate. Getting enough sleep beforehand can really help to increase your exam success on the day.

There are a few things you can do to increase your sleep quality. Make sure you have somewhere quiet to wind down with no distractions, limit your caffeine intake after 4pm and ensure your bedroom is cool, comfortable and dark. If you combine this with adequate revision beforehand, then your skills, knowledge and hard work will be ready to come out on the day.

Eat a healthy breakfast

It’s important to start your exams on the right foot. When you properly fuel up with a healthy breakfast, you’re giving your body the energy and nutrients it needs to focus and succeed. Studies show that eating a breakfast high in fibre and carbohydrates gives your brain the energy boost it needs for better concentration, problem-solving and memory recall—essential qualities for tackling challenging exams.

A breakfast of vitamins and minerals also helps to regulate blood sugar levels, keeping energy steady throughout the day instead of crashing at noon like an unbalanced diet can sometimes do. Eating a nutritious meal packed with protein keeps hunger at bay, which means no distractions from a rumbling tummy or low-energy hankerings during testing hours.

So, make sure you don’t go into battle without arming yourself with a nutritious breakfast. It might just hold the edge you need between acing your exam or just passing.

Take extra practice exams

Taking practice exams is an invaluable tool in preparing for upcoming tests or assessments. Not only will it help to review topics and build up confidence, but it can also help you to become familiar with the format of the exam.

Taking sample tests allows you to practice finding answers quickly and get used to the layout of questions and instructions. This will ensure that you’re better able to navigate through the paper efficiently on test day.

Make sure you take the time to carefully check over the answers of the practice test when you’re finished. Going through each question step-by-step and then checking the answers helps to identify any errors. It also means that if you’re faced with similar rule-based questions on the real exam, there will be less room for mistakes while writing.

In short, taking regular practice exams can help tremendously in terms of efficiency and accuracy when faced with an unfamiliar format come assessment day.

Don't stress out - try to relax and stay calm

Exams can be a daunting experience for students. It's completely natural to feel nervous and overwhelmed in the lead-up. However, it's important you stay calm and not let the stress get the better of you. It can be helpful to remember:

• Don’t worry about the future, instead focus on what is in your control and make sure you’ve done all the relevant preparation needed.
• Take regular breaks and focus on breathing, this will help to clear the head so the mind can approach problems with a fresh perspective.
• Spend time outdoors or with friends to manage stress levels.
• Exams are only one part of life—if they don’t go perfectly, there are always alternatives. Stay persistent and motivated, knowing that every challenge will bring new opportunities.

While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to succeeding in exams, by following the tips we've outlined in this post and staying calm and focused, you'll be well on your way to acing your next test.

At Medowie Christian School, we’re passionate about helping our students to learn, grow and thrive. Our students are given every opportunity to flourish and become the best person they can possibly be. For more information on our vision and curriculum, or to apply for enrolment, contact us via our website or call today on 02 4052 3300.