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Student Blog

What to do before an exam: our 5 steps

It’s exam day and you want to be in the best mindset. You need to be calm and ready to do your best. Here are our 5 tips on what to do before an exam.

Wake up your body

Get your mind and body ready by getting energised. While you’re getting ready, play your favorite songs. The simple act of singing along with the songs will encourage your brain to start processing information.

A healthy breakfast

Having breakfast on the morning of your exam is important to give you enough energy to make it all the way through your exam.

Your breakfast should include vitamins and fibre to keep you energized and full.

  • Cereal can be a great source of calcium and fiber (depending on what cereal you eat), but won’t keep you full for very long.
  • Bagels or toast are a great way to keep yourself full. Spread peanut butter on them instead of butter or cream cheese makes them a lighter choice with more energizing nutrients.
  • Greek yogurt and energising fruit, such as a banana and blueberries, is a well-rounded meal perfect before an exam.
  • Avoid foods with high sodium and fat contents because they can make you feel sleepy. Anything greasy and sugary can upset your stomach.
  • Drink lots of water an hour before the exam so you have time to use the toilet before it starts. During the exam, sip water to keep you hydrated and your mind alert.

Warm Up Your Brain

Give yourself plenty of time in the morning to look over your notes. Reading some of your notes will get your brain in the mood for processing information. Try not to leave any memorising until the morning of the exam because this can damage any information your brain has already stored.

Give yourself plenty of time

Wake up with enough time to eat, relax and, get to your exam so you don’t get stressed. This allows you to get comfortable with your surroundings and calm down before you embark on the exam. It will also stop you from being late and experiencing any penalties associated with this.

Check you bag

Make sure you have everything you need for the exam:

  • Pencils
  • Pens
  • Ruler
  • Protractor
  • Compass
  • Calculator
  • Rubber
  • Pencil sharpener
  • Water bottle

Remember none of your equipment can having markings on them. Leave your watch at home, you’ll have to take it off anyway and there will be several clocks hung up in the exam room.

If you are unable to get to your school to undergo the exam, call your school immediately and they will be able to help you.

Good luck with all your exams!


Written by Anastasia K.

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