Exam Anxiety

1

For me, GCSEs are at very high stakes. And I also feel I am under a lot of pressure. So as most of us I put in hours and hours of revision since the beginning of the year.

But every exam I have done, I haven't walked out of the room feeling 100% confident.

When I do a lot past papers, I tend to score really really well but why doesn't it feel this way when I do the actual exam. Is it anxiety? Am I just overthinking? What do I do?

Reply 1

isaac123444566

18

For GCSEs the past papers are so repetitive, it seems you've done a lot of past papers, so surely your noticing how you've seen lots of the questions/mark schemes before, reducing the presure?
What I'd recommend is for you to try to do some papers under exam conditions so it feels like the real thing, and remember to breath/drink water etc etc. in the exam, and don't overanalyze it after, usually you feel like you've done worse than u have!
Just out of interest, why are GCSEs so high stakes for you?

Reply 2

asdasdsag

OP

1

Original post

by isaac123444566

For GCSEs the past papers are so repetitive, it seems you've done a lot of past papers, so surely your noticing how you've seen lots of the questions/mark schemes before, reducing the presure?
What I'd recommend is for you to try to do some papers under exam conditions so it feels like the real thing, and remember to breath/drink water etc etc. in the exam, and don't overanalyze it after, usually you feel like you've done worse than u have!
Just out of interest, why are GCSEs so high stakes for you?

I want to become a doctor. Plus there a little pressure from parents for 9s in almost everything.

Reply 3

asdasdsag

OP

1

I feel like I blank during exams. I know the stuff, I have done the past papers under exam conditions. Then I remember some of the topic, I write it down and then after the exam I begin to second-guess myself.

Reply 4

asdasdsag

OP

1

This is good to watch tbh

Reply 5

isaac123444566

18

Original post

by asdasdsag

I want to become a doctor. Plus there a little pressure from parents for 9s in almost everything.

I think for this you are overplaying how much GCSEs matter in your case, because it seems you are already looking at 8s and 9s, which is fine. I get medicine is extremely competitive but at the end of the day everyone graduates with the same degree, and it sounds like you are very smart academically! A few 8s on your record is going to have next to no impact on your uni/grad school applications, and after you do A levels they are basically obselete

Reply 6

asdasdsag

OP

1

Original post

by isaac123444566

I think for this you are overplaying how much GCSEs matter in your case, because it seems you are already looking at 8s and 9s, which is fine. I get medicine is extremely competitive but at the end of the day everyone graduates with the same degree, and it sounds like you are very smart academically! A few 8s on your record is going to have next to no impact on your uni/grad school applications, and after you do A levels they are basically obselete

Thank you.

Reply 7

isaac123444566

18

Original post

by asdasdsag

I feel like I blank during exams. I know the stuff, I have done the past papers under exam conditions. Then I remember some of the topic, I write it down and then after the exam I begin to second-guess myself.

I'd definitely work on breathing/speak to parents, maybe try doing plans for the questions befroehand or drawing an asterisk on it and coming back to it later? That's what I do when I don't know a question, and it always works that I come back and remember the answer!

Reply 8

isaac123444566

18

Original post

by asdasdsag

Thank you.

no worries! def do the techniques I've said below (specifically putting an asterix and coming back later because that prevents getting caught on a question and can help reduce anxiety!)

Reply 9

Coventry University Student Ambassadors

Official Rep

18

Hello there!

Many students experience a similar feeling after the exam.
You are not alone in feeling this way!

Here are some tips that could help you manage anxiety and perform at your best:

•

Practice under conditions that mimic the actual exam, - such as timed sessions, minimal distractions, and in a quiet environment. This could help you to get used to the situation.

•

Develop a pre-exam routine. Establish a consistent routine before exams.
This could include a specific breakfast, a short walk, or a breathing exercise.

•

Practice different breathing techniques. Deep breathing, or mindfulness meditation can calm your nervous system. If you regularly practice, these techniques could be more effective during high-stress moments.

•

Challenge and replace negative self-talk with positive affirmations. Instead of thinking, "I can't do this," remind yourself, "I have prepared thoroughly, and I can handle this."

•

Regular exercise, a good sleep, and a balanced diet can significantly impact your stress levels and cognitive function.

•

Seek some support. Talk to teachers, friends, or anyone who you trust about your anxiety. They can provide support, and resources. They also are able to give you different perspectives.

I hope this helps!
Remember, You are not alone!

Kind regards,
Reka - Coventry University Student Ambassador

Exam Anxiety

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