by Rebekah Ollerenshaw | Aug 18, 2026 | My studies, News and events, Wellbeing | 0 comments

By Katie Dickinson

Ahhh, it’s exam time again.

It can be quite daunting if it’s been a while since your last exam, especially if you’re brand new to a subject or have found the module itself quite difficult.
But we’re here to help with some of those exam anxieties. Exanieties, if you will… ok, maybe we don’t call it that… but still!

Everyone gets nervous before a big exam. It’s a perfectly natural reaction to something important and although it’s ok to have some nerves beforehand, you don’t want them getting to the point where you’re feeling so anxious and flustered that your mind goes blank as soon as you turn the first page.

So, we’ve put together some advice to help you get through the exam period, with as few nerves as possible.

Preparing for exams can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure where to begin. One helpful starting point is taking advantage of the support available to you. The library offers a range of workshops designed to help students manage exam season, covering topics such as mindfulness, concentration, revision strategies, and coping with exam stress. These sessions can provide useful tools and help you feel more confident as exams approach.

An important part of effective revision is finding a study method that works for you. While it is natural to want to achieve your best, it is equally important to be kind to yourself throughout the process. Everyone learns differently, and a revision technique that works well for one person may not work for another. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different approaches until you find one that suits your learning style.

Some students learn best through hands-on activities and practical experience, often referred to as kinaesthetic learning. Others are auditory learners who absorb information more effectively through listening, discussions, or reading notes aloud. Visual learners may prefer written instructions, diagrams, colour-coded notes, and images to help organise and remember information. Use this quiz to find out what kind of learner you are so you can make revision more effective and less stressful.

Students registered with Disability Advisory and Support Services (DASS) may also be eligible for exam support. While application deadlines for the current exam period will have passed the DASS team can provide guidance on available support options and help students prepare for future assessments. The type of support available will depend on individual circumstances.

During exam season, it is easy to place immense pressure on yourself. While some people thrive under pressure, others may find it overwhelming and counterproductive. The important thing is to recognise your own limits and focus on what helps you perform at your best. Avoid comparing yourself to others; if a particular study method helps you feel prepared and confident, then it is the right approach for you.

It’s also important to remember that not every exam will go perfectly. Setbacks happen, and no one can perform flawlessly all the time. What matters most is how you respond, learn from the experience, and move forward. Being overly critical of yourself can make an already stressful situation harder to manage.

Self-care should remain a priority throughout the exam period. Rather than waiting until exams are over to relax, try to make time for activities you enjoy while you are revising. Taking breaks, spending time with friends, exercising, or simply doing something that helps you unwind can improve your wellbeing and support your academic performance. Looking after yourself allows you to approach your studies feeling more focused and energised.

Trust yourself and the work you have already put in. If you find yourself struggling to concentrate or retain information, it may be a sign that you need a break. Long study sessions and all-night revision marathons are often less effective than shorter periods of focused study combined with regular breaks. Sleep is especially important, as lack of rest can increase stress and make it harder to absorb information.

During study breaks, try to move around, stay hydrated, and eat regularly. Even a short change of scenery can help refresh your mind and improve concentration when you return to your work. Taking care of your physical and mental wellbeing is just as important as the hours you spend revising.

Remember to reflect on how far you have already come. Exams are a temporary challenge, but the resilience, determination, and skills you have developed will stay with you long after they are over. If you need extra support, student services, counselling teams, and wellbeing resources are available to help. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Most importantly, believe in yourself. You can achieve great things, and the effort you are putting in now will help you succeed. Good luck with your exams—you’ve got this.