Exams and assignments are an inevitable part of our academic journey. While they are meant to evaluate one’s understanding and knowledge, they can also bring in a lot of stress and anxiety. The fear of failure, meeting deadlines, and the pressure to perform well can take a toll on one’s mental and emotional well-being. However, there are ways to deal with exam/assignment stress effectively. Here are a few tips.

Plan and Organise

The first step to managing stress is to have a plan in place. Make a study timetable that includes regular breaks, meals, and time for leisure activities. This will help you prioritise your tasks and manage your time effectively. Planning and organising also help to reduce last-minute stress and panic.

Practice Self-Care

Self-care is crucial in managing stress. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough sleep can help you feel energised and focused. As for me, I attend a dance studio (studio 25) in Manchester, book PT sessions at the gym and join The University of Manchester hiking club every week. These help me find the inner peace and then return to studying efficiently.

Avoid Procrastination

Procrastination is the enemy of productivity and the primary cause of stress. It’s essential to break down assignments into smaller tasks and start working on them early. For example, this semester I have a coursework with group of 5 people. So, we divide this task into several parts and have catch-up meetings every week to make sure we are on the right track.

Seek Help

Don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re feeling overwhelmed or confused. Talk to your teachers or classmates for clarification and guidance. It is very easy to book an office hour with our teachers. In addition, we also have a pass leader to help year 1 students adjust in their university life. Join a study group. If you’re struggling with mental health issues, talk to our counsellor (we have a free nightline).

My favourite place in the main library

Practice Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation techniques like deep breathing, visualisation, or progressive muscle relaxation can help calm your mind and reduce stress. Take deep breaths, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. Visualise a peaceful place, like a beach or a forest. For me, finding a favourite place to study is a vital part to reduce my stress levels. I would say green and purple areas in main library and Alan Gilbert Learning Commons are the best places. There is a good atmosphere for revising and when you get tired of studying you can see trees and flowers outside the window.

In conclusion, exams and assignments are an inevitable part of academic life, but they do not have to be stressful. By planning and organising, practicing self-care, avoiding procrastination, seeking help, and practicing relaxation techniques, you can manage exam/assignment stress effectively. Remember to take care of yourself and stay focused on your goals.

Written by Anzhi, current MSc Finance student at AMBS.

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