Help your Student Manage Exam Expectations

Exams are a time when stress levels are higher than usual. Many students feel stressed at exam time - having to revise a lot of information in a short amount of time and add to that not understanding course material can lead to added pressure. Some stress can be positive; helping your student stay motivated and focused. However, too much stress can be hurtful and unhealthy, making your student feel overwhelmed, confused, exhausted and edgy. External pressures around exams can be huge – and it can be hard to deal with. Things that might help your child manage expectations: 

• • Have them base expectations on past performances and doing the best they can do.
  • Put the exam in context.  In the scheme of their life, how important is it?  If they don't do as well as they'd hoped there are always other alternatives.  It's not going to dictate whether they are a good or a bad person, or whether they are a success or failure. 
  • Ask your student about how they are feeling, see if they need any advice or help that you might be able to offer. 

Exams are a time when stress levels are higher than usual. Many students feel stressed at exam time - having to revise a lot of information in a short amount of time and add to that not understanding course material can lead to added pressure. Some stress can be positive; helping your student stay motivated and focused. However, too much stress can be hurtful and unhealthy, making your student feel overwhelmed, confused, exhausted and edgy.

External pressures around exams can be huge – and it can be hard to deal with. Things that might help your child manage expectations:

There's always a light at the end of the tunnel.  Exams have a beginning and an end, and the stress that goes along with them should end with the exam.  Once the exam, paper or project is turned in, there's nothing more they can do to influence the outcome - which means it's time to relax.

Sources:

http://www.reachout.com.au/default.asp?ti=1342">www.collegeview.com/articles/CV/campuslife/college-exam-stress.html
http://www.reachout.com.au/default.asp?ti=1342