Online Reporter
Dr Muso
EXAMINATIONS can be a stressful period for many students. The pressure to perform, the fear of failure and the uncertainty about the outcome often lead to exam anxiety, a common yet manageable challenge.
What is exam anxiety?
Exam anxiety is a type of performance anxiety. It’s a feeling of intense nervousness or worry before or during an examination. You may experience:
Racing thoughts
Sweaty palms
A fast heartbeat
Difficulty concentrating
Blank mind
Nausea or headaches
While a little nervousness can sharpen focus, too much anxiety can interfere with performance, even when a student has prepared well.
Causes of exam anxiety
Fear of failure – Worrying about disappointing family or teachers.
Lack of preparation – Leaving revision until the last minute.
Pressure to succeed – Comparing yourself to others.
Previous negative experiences– Past poor performance creating fear.
How to manage exam anxiety
Start preparing early
Don’t cram at the last minute. Create a realistic study timetable and stick to it.
Practice regularly
Use past exam papers to get familiar with question types and time management.
Stay organised
Break your work into manageable sections. Use notes, summaries and mind maps to aid memory.
Stay healthy
Eat well, get enough sleep and take short breaks during study sessions. Avoid energy drinks.
Use positive self-talk
Replace “I can’t do this” with “I have prepared and I will try my best.”
Breathe and relax
Practice deep breathing or mindfulness exercises before studying and exams.
Reach out
Talk to teachers, parents, if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
On the day of the exam
Arrive early and avoid panicking students.
Read instructions carefully.
Start with questions you’re confident about.
Keep an eye on time.
If you go blank, pause, take a deep breath and move on.
Remember, exams are not a test of your worth — they are just a way to measure what you’ve learned. With the right mindset, discipline and strategies, you can beat anxiety and succeed.
Believe in yourself. You are capable. You are prepared. You will succeed.
Dr Manners Msongelwa is an author, teacher and youth coach. He can be contacted on +263 771 019 392
