Teen Tips: Exam Guide

Like them or loathe them exams are one of the most stressful issues that a teenager will face. Exams affect people in many different ways so it's important to have a calm and relaxed attitude when discussing this topic. I will be talking you through my guide on dealing with exams and the added stress that comes with it. If you would like to read my post on Coping With Stress it is in the label 'Teen Tips'. Check it out!

The pressure of exams can affect people differently and many friends fall out during these times because they don't understand why the other isn't as nervous and doesn't need to study as much.

1) Stay Calm
As crazy as exams can be the most important rule anyone can have is to stay calm and keep focused. There is no point worrying about something which you cannot change as you are wasting energy that could be used during the exam.

2) It's Okay To Study More Than Others And Admit It
"I've not studied" is a common lie and do not be fooled by it! Having said that, some people can study very little and still come away with a high A whereas others can study lots and only achieve an average C. Me and my best friend are a prime example! She studies as little as possible but still has the highest grades in our year whereas I have to study quite a lot to actually understand and remember it to achieve B's and C's.

3) Use Different Methods To Revise
Some people are kinetic learners whilst others can sit in front of a textbook and memorise it. However you learn can be completely different to everyone else you know but that's okay! Sometimes using colourful mindmaps instead of black and white lists can make it so much easier to learn and vice versa!

4) Use Your Time Effectively
One of the worst things to do when studying is procrastinating. To do well you need to put the work in beforehand. If you struggle to keep focused then I'd recommend setting small goals such as doing a chapter of Biology then getting to watch Netflix or finishing a past paper then getting to bake cupcakes.

5) Start Early
My mum always makes me get up like it's a schoolday when I'm off studying. That way I'm still in the habit of school hours. It also means I get to relax in the evening. On weekends I will wake up an hour or so later than normal and then get ready and study then so I have the afternoon to myself. It makes my life easier and happier - two essentials during busy times!

6) Plan Your Studies
Study Plans!!! 8 columns and 4 rows. Along the top row leave the first one blank then write the days of the week. Down the first column leave the first box blank and write Morning, Afternoon, Evening. Then cross out the slots where you have plans like work or going out with friends. Then fill the rest in with subjects. Don't be overambitious - doing Chemistry all day is tough on your brain and you won't learn as much. Aim for 3 different large chunks of different subjects or 6 little bites of different subjects.

7) Be Open-Minded
It is quite common to fall out with friends when you are stressed and disagree on something. If your friend isn't studying and you are then you might feel annoyed that she's wasting her time but don't confront her. It's not your responsibility and as much as you want her to do well if she isn't putting effort in then she'll have to learn the hard way.

8)Eat Well, Sleep Lots
You can't learn if you are (i) Hungry or (ii) Tired. It's worth taking an extra slice of toast or an extra 30 mins in bed if it will help your studying. Just make up the time out of your relaxation slots. Make sure you eat healthily too so your brain has plenty of energy to store the golden nuggets of information to get you 100%!

I understand many of you will be taking exams in the next coming months so I wish you the very best of luck and remember to put the effort in!!

How to Cope with Stress

Before I start I must make you all aware that I am not an expert in this field. This is purely from my experience.

For any teenager stress is a major part of your life. Whether it's a two page physics investigation due in the next day or a 15,000 word dissertation due in six weeks we have all at some point along the road gone 'eeeeeeeeek!'

Personally, I don't like talking about my feelings with my parents and I bottle things up inside me until they quite literally spill over in the form of tears, and lots of them. Which brings me onto my first point...

1) Its okay to cry!
Yes really, it has been scientifically proven to remove hormones (endorphins leucine-enkaphalin and prolactin) out of your body. By not crying your stress levels actually increase and you are more inclined to develop health issues like high blood pressure or heart problems.

2) Do speak to someone
I've already said I hate talking about my feelings to my parents but when I do get stressed out I go onto a website set up by 'ChildLine'. They are a charity run by professionals who are there anytime you need them. I write down what upset me and how I feel and send it off to one of there councillors who within 24 hours will reply and give guidance on my situations. I love 'ChildLine' and their confidentiality policy makes me trust them not to judge me. If you'd like to look at their amazing website the link is www.childline.org.uk

3) Take a break
It sounds crazy I know but when you are stressed one of the best things to do is to sit back and take a 10 minute break. During exam leave when I had all of my exams in 2 weeks my favourite thing to do was to meditate with an app called 'Headspace'. My school rector introduced me to it and I must confess I am addicted to it! www.headspace.com is an online version of what I used to get me through some of the most stressful points of my academic life. It takes 10 minutes out of your day and talks you through stages of meditation and relaxation. Give it a try and if you fall asleep then it's okay, that's what happens if you are relaxed!

4) Do some exercise
I don't use this often but I keep up an hour and a half dance class once a week to keep fit and take time out from studying. I know my friends go on a run for 10-15 minutes around their block for the same reason. It produces endorphins which make you happy and relaxed and it refocuses your brain.

5) Get some sleep
Those late nights spent with caffeine and an unfinished essay isn't actually worth it. Teenagers need on average 9 hours sleep a night so instead of messaging friends or watching Netflix do homework early and treat yourself afterwards.

6) Set Goals and To-Do Lists
It sounds so basic but at the start of every week and every day take 5 minutes and write a list of what needs done this week and then look at that and plan your days from it around pre-planned activities, like gym class or coffee date with your friends. Have a to-do list on your phone so whenever you need to add something on you can.

I hope you found this helpful and I'll see you next time!