YOU advice columnist Dr Louise has this advice if you’re about to write exams.
PREPARE
Don’t bluff yourself you can function better under pressure and leave studying to the last minute. More pressure means greater stress.
TIME IT
The brain is more active and processes information faster in the morning. Two hours’ study in the morning equals four hours in the evening.
READ FIRST
Reading through material will help you process the information properly. Memorising the work is easier when you understand it.
USE ALL THE SENSES
Read aloud, visualise, demonstrate with your hands in the air - the more senses you use the easier it is for your brain to process and encode the material.
HAVE ATTITUDE
A positive, enthusiastic approach will help you focus and learn better.
BE PURPOSEFUL
Remind yourself your studies are excellent preparation for a good life and career.
REWARD YOURSELF
Enjoy small treats between study sessions - a TV show, a walk. The unconscious mind responds to rewards for work well done.
PREPARE YOUR BODY
1 Get enough sleep. Your brain uses sleep to organise mental material and embed it in the memory. Lack of good sleep makes it tough to focus and think creatively.
2 Exercise. The extra oxygen will help your brain function better. The endorphins released will make you feel good and help you stay enthusiastic about your studies.
3 Eat properly. Low blood sugar means tiredness and listlessness. High blood sugar means concentration problems. Eat healthily and regularly.
