The exams are almost here

Stay calm, get a good night’s rest and say no to any last-minute panic attacks, says Jitendra Nagpal

Examinations play an important role in the process of selection of people. Surveys show that the majority of school-going students experience tension, worry and stress during examinations. So, this is how you learn to deal with the stress:
. Prepare a revision plan by combining your favourite and not-so-favorite subjects in the study plan of the day.
. Try and complete two model question examinations (each subject) in this time.
. Fix time for sleep and relaxation (including TV time).
. Try meditation and autosuggestions. Focus on positive thoughts every day and train yourself to be calm in the examination hall.
. From time to time, talk to your parents, siblings and friends about how your preparations are going on.

A few days before the examinations, remember the following dos:
. Prepare a revision timetable.
. Make your books and notes more user-friendly with summary notes, headings, subheadings, highlighting and revision cards.
. Find out what revision style suits you: alone or with a friend? Morning or late at night? Short or long revision sessions?
. Take notes of important points when revising. Use this as an aid for future revisions. Look at past examination papers.
. If you feel stressed, talk to someone you feel comfortable with.

This is what you should remember not to do:
. Collect new notes and materials, try and mug up at the last minute before the papers.
. Not take breaks for bath, food, relaxation and sleep.
. Stay awake the whole night.
. Excessive use of coffee or tea to stay awake at night.

The author is a senior consultant psychiatrist with Moolchand Medcity and Vimhans, New Delhi. Send him an email at hthorizons@
hindustantimes.com, marked ‘Dr Nagpal’

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