ATAR Exam Time is Upon Us, so How Do I Keep My Sanity Intact?

It is not a fun time for the ATAR exam-takers out there.

More than 68,000 school leavers kicked off their HSC exams in New South Wales this week, with the rest of Aussie students already in the thick of it or preparing to begin any day now.

That means the most stressful period of the year has officially begun.

No matter what you do, exams come with a whole lotta pressure and that can make us feel worried, or like we can’t quite manage our emotions.

It can often be more than just feeling nervous on the day–it can also be how you feel in the lead-up, the stress of being in the exam room, and while you’re anxiously awaiting your results.

If you’re struggling or need a few ideas of things that can help around exam time, we’ve got your back with our very best tips.

Before.

In that scary szn as exams approach, it’s important to find a way to study that works for you.

Maybe that’s finding a study group or making a revision timetable (we’ve got one here to get you started).

You’ll focus better in a space that’s comfy, quiet, well-lit and organised, so make sure you have everything ready for each study session and remove all your pesky distractions. Yes, that does include your phone!

The night before your exam, make sure you get a good night’s sleep, and get everything prepared so you’ve got all the right stationery, ID and know exactly where you need to be and when you need to be there.

And don’t forget, Student Edge has a bunch of study tips to help you work smarter and not harder, so check them out here.

During.

It can get overwhelming when you’re sat down in the exam room and the timer starts, even when you think you’ve done everything you can to prepare.

However, there are plenty of little things you can do while you’re in the exam to stay calm.

It sounds silly, but it’s so easy to forget to breathe or to only take shallow breaths when you’re nervous. Remember to stop, inhale and exhale deeply for at least three seconds.

Check in every now and then and adjust your posture, relax your shoulders or stretch your arms. Notice how your body feels, if you feel tense anywhere or if you’re feeling panicked., then take a few moments to reset.

And, if you find yourself rushing, remind yourself to slow down, take your time and remind yourself that it will all be over soon!

After.

Waiting for exam results can feel like time has stopped still forever and will never move again, and we’re hardly even exaggerating.

If you’re stressed after taking an exam or don’t feel like you’ve done well, it’s important to continue to look after yourself and manage your stress, especially if you have more exams ahead.

Try not to compare yourself to others. The best way to do this is to not even talk about the exam with people, so you don’t start to doubt your answers.

And don’t forget to treat yo’self because you deserve a lil reward! Maybe you could add a couple of items to your online cart or get yourself a bubble tea. Student Edge has endless deals on offer, so check them out here.

We know you’ve absolutely got this and we’re sending all the good vibes this exam szn.

But remember, if you do need extra support to help cope with exam stress, or your mental health, that’s okay too!

If you or anyone you know needs help, support is available now. Call Lifeline on 131 114 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800. Visit ReachOut to get support to help you with everything from everyday issues through to tough times.