Your Survival Guide to Exams with Mayukh

In need of some tips to help survive exam season? UCL Chemistry Digital Student Ambassador Mayukh is here to do just that! Read on for advice on revising and recharging to meet your goals.

Ah, the dreaded exam season – a time when stress levels soar, caffeine consumption skyrockets, and sleep becomes a distant memory. But fear not, fellow students, for I come bearing a survival guide to help you weather the storm and emerge victorious on the other side.

Mastering the Material

The key to surviving exams is preparation. Break down your syllabus into manageable chunks and create a realistic study schedule. Prioritise topics based on importance and allocate time for revision and practice tests. Remember, failing to plan is planning to fail.

Say goodbye to mindlessly rereading notes and hello to active revision methods! In my own experience, I've found that flashcards work wonders for retaining complex information. They're particularly great because you can use them to test yourself anywhere, anytime. Along with flashcards, mind maps help in visualising the relationships between concepts, and summarising each chapter keeps the key points fresh in my mind. It’s about finding that active engagement with the material which really helps in boosting understanding and retention.

They say practice makes perfect, and they are not wrong. Past papers are invaluable resources for familiarising yourself with exam formats and identifying weak areas. Set aside time for regular practice tests to build confidence and improve performance under pressure.

Recharge and Revive

Burnout is real, folks, and I'm not shy about taking my well-deserved breaks. My go-to chill tip? A quick five-minute meditation session to stretch out after a long study session. It refreshes my mind and body, making it easier to focus when I get back to the books. And if I’m feeling particularly drained, I treat myself to hot chocolate - it’s my favourite snack for a quick energy boost. Find what recharges your batteries and make it a priority!

Exam stress is par for the course, but it doesn't have to rule your life. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, visualisation, or progressive muscle relaxation to keep stress at bay. Remember, it's okay to seek support from friends, family, or counselling services if you're feeling overwhelmed.

Pulling all-nighters might seem like a rite of passage, but it's a surefire way to sabotage your exam performance. Aim for 6-8 hours of quality sleep each night to ensure your brain is firing on all cylinders come exam day.

From Doubters to Believers

The mind is a powerful tool, so use it to your advantage. Cultivate a positive mindset by focusing on your strengths, setting realistic goals, and visualising success. Remember, you've put in the work – now trust in your abilities and believe in yourself.

As a fellow student who's navigated the exam jungle more times than I can count, I can attest to the effectiveness of these survival strategies - especially during my first-year organic chemistry exam. That was a tough one! I used mind maps extensively to visualise the reactions and mechanisms, which was a game changer. So, take a deep breath, steel your resolve, and remember that you're capable of conquering whatever challenges lie ahead.

While exams may seem daunting, with the right mindset and strategies, you can conquer them. Remember, you're not alone in this journey - reach out for support when needed and believe in your ability to succeed. Good luck! You’ve got this!

Author: Mayukh Das
Photo Credit: Mat Wright