Exams can feel overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can transform that stress into success. At Brillantmont, we focus not only on effective revision techniques but also on promoting well-being to ensure a balanced and productive study routine.
Mrs. Federica Spigarelli, our Pastoral Care and Wellbeing Coordinator and PSHE teacher, shares her expert advice on preparing for exams in a smart way whether it’s for the British IGCSEs, the A Levels, or getting credits for the American High School diploma. Mid-year exams offer a valuable opportunity to demonstrate your learning and apply your skills.
Rather than viewing them as a threat, we encourage Brillantmont students to embrace exams as a chance to rise to the challenge and showcase what they know.
Manage your study time effectively
To reduce exam stress, start early by breaking your study material into smaller, manageable chunks and avoid cramming. Making a revision timetable can be very helpful in organising your time.
A helpful strategy to maintain focus during revision sessions is the so-called “Pomodoro Technique”. This involves studying for 25 minutes, followed by a 5 - minute break. After completing four cycles, you can take a longer break of about 15 - 20 minutes. Breaks must involve some physical movement, ideally a walk outside or stretching, as this can improve concentration and productivity.
Both individual revision and studying with another student can be beneficial: for example, explaining concepts to others can make ideas clearer. Making use of the quiet study areas at school, such as the library and classrooms, whenever possible is also preferable to studying in your bedroom.
Set realistic goals using diverse revision techniques
Use a range of revision techniques that suit you. By applying different methods, especially through reading and writing, you ensure that the information is actively engaged with, which helps you understand and retain it more effectively. It is not a case that the word "learn" relates to the Latin words discere, meaning "to learn," and littera, meaning "letter" or "literature," reflecting the importance of acquiring knowledge through reading and writing as these are essential not only in class but also in your independent revision.
For example, through mind maps with colours and icons, you can organise ideas and make links, and flashcards are particularly useful for definitions and learning new vocabulary, especially in L2 learning. Explaining to your classmate what you are studying can also be a great technique as hearing yourself explain the material will help reinforce it and will facilitate its memorisation.
Seek help and stay active - mind and body matter
Most importantly, if you have any questions or difficulties with understanding or retaining information, do not hesitate to speak to your teachers as they are there to help clarify concepts and guide you through the material.
Additionally, while technology can be useful for completing your notes and accessing videos or additional resources, it should not replace active revision on paper because research has shown that the process of writing things down helps stick the information in your memory.
Being a boarding student at Brillantmont gives you a routine, which can help balance study with rest. Make sure to pay particular attention to eating balanced meals, drinking enough water and getting at least eight hours of sleep each night. A well-organized environment also helps you stay focused and reduces distractions, so don’t forget to tidy your room. These habits will have a direct impact on your academic performance and overall well-being. Staying active with sports or even a walk at the beautiful Parc de Mon Repos, a few steps away from Brillantmont International School, can also help you stay active and keep your stress manageable.
It is important to remind yourself that stress is a natural part of life, and when managed properly, it can actually be beneficial! It helps motivate us, generates action, and strengthens our ability to handle challenges.
Manage stress and embrace mistakes
If, despite your efforts, excessive and prolonged stress starts to build, try mindfulness techniques like deep breathing or journaling to help calm your mind and feel in control of the situation. Additionally, if you start to feel overwhelmed, talking to your Academic Tutor, the Health Department, your Boarding Staff, or any trusted adult in the community will provide you with important support: you are not alone!
Lastly, remember that failure and mistakes are an essential part of your learning journey. It is through making errors and learning from them that you will identify areas for improvement, grow, and refine your knowledge and abilities. Exams are to test yourself, learn from the experience, and become more resilient in your academic and personal journey.
When preparing for exams, it is crucial to strike a balance between effective revision techniques and taking care of yourself. Active studying, smart goal-setting, staying organized, taking breaks, and prioritizing well-being will set you up for success. So, as you prepare for your exams, remember: it is not just about how hard you work but also how well you take care of yourself along the way.
With these strategies, you’ll be ready to tackle your exams with confidence!
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Brillantmont International School in Lausanne, Switzerland
Founded in 1882, Brillantmont International School is the oldest family owned and run boarding school in Switzerland, which offers a warm welcoming environment. Brillantmont has the best of both worlds - close to the amenities of the beautiful city of Lausanne, but just minutes from mountains, lakes and nature.
The school welcomes boarding and day students, aged 13-18 (Grades 8-12) from many different nationalities. Small classes (av. 9) lead to internationally recognised examinations (British IGCSE, A Level; High School Diploma ).
Why not become part of our BM family? Find out more by calling +41 21 310 0400 or by email admissions@brillantmont.ch.
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