What coping strategies do you use for exam stress?

I am one of the lucky ones who does not suffer much from exam stress. Contrary to most advice I tend to leave work till the end as I feel that with pressure I do a better job and get higher grades. Breaks are very important to get one’s mind off thinking too much. For me, half a day of work should be coupled with at least an hour of outdoor sports. Kyle Ferriggi, 3rd year BA (Hons) in International Relations.

I set a time limit after which I take a break, go for a walk or chat with friends. A revision schedule helps, but it is alright if I fall a bit behind. This way I am motivated to be productive and stay on track. Melanie Bonnici Bennett, 3rd year B. European Studies (Hons) with Psychology.

My coping strategy mainly consists of plenty of coffee, short walks to give my brain a break and reading a novel. Noelene Scerri, MA in Human Rights and Democratisation of Governance.

Do all-nighters work when it comes to studying?

All-nighters do not work – the last time I tried it I was falling asleep. If you feel the urge to do an all-nighter, it is better to hope for the best and have a good night sleep than to waste your energy. Kyle Ferriggi

I am useless after midnight. The only thing all-nighters are good for is complete exhaustion, leaving me frustrated that I cannot cram any more information into my head. I would rather get a good night’s sleep to absorb what I have learned. Melanie Bonnici Bennett

All-nighters do the trick when panic kicks in. There are no distractions, you can work in peace and quiet and stretch your legs whenever you want without being forced to make small talk. Noelene Scerri

Are exams the best way to evaluate students?

No. In the real world one is never in this situation. Kyle Ferriggi

Exams are great at determining a student’s memory, but not necessarily how much they have understood the topic. Some find it is easy to memorise information and regurgitate it in exams, but many forget it the moment they leave the exam room. Melanie Bonnici Bennett

Exams are a memory game. If the questions are challenging they can help, as one has to give an analysis of what one’s studies/research­. Unfortunately students are hardly ever given feedback about their exam’s outcome. Noelene Scerri

(Compiled by Insite – the student media organisation)

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