“I like to study and I like the subjects and my class performance is also very good but I don’t like to take part in the examination. Why is it necessary?” In student life it was common to not want to face an examination and it still is.
Mostly all students are afraid of examination. This fear is a common picture among students and the feelings increase when students start studying. In extreme cases symptoms of exam phobia can be easily observed and addressed.
To know whether exam phobia is a barrier to good grades, you need to recognise the symptoms. Simple fear of exams is ordinary and is not exam phobia. These are some clear symptoms of exam phobia.
- Having nightmares.
- Feeling over stressed with studies and worried about examinations/results.
- Feelings of anger and inability to concentrate on studies.
- Loss of appetite.
- Dry throat.
- Oversleeping.
- Becoming addicted to television or games.
- Increase in heart rate.
- Breathing difficulty.
- Sweating, trembling and cold limbs.
- Suffering from abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and sometimes diarrhea.
- Becoming a victim of frequent urination.
- Avoiding schools.
But what are the root causes of exam phobia? here is some common reasons behind exam phobia.
- Students are scared of exams because they know they are not prepared for them.
- They underestimate themselves.
- They are too scared about their future.
- Their friends have negative influence; some lack confidence and others are over confident.
To avoid exam phobia, studying is the only option. A proper study schedule can help students to complete their syllabus in time. Confidence is another important factor. If students can finish their syllabus before exams, confidence will increase.
There also needs to be proper sleep, food and break intervals from study for good preparation. Eat healthy and balanced meals and no matter the temptation do not go for energy drinks (they make you hyperactive, not focused), oily foods, caffeine etc. Check all the accessories you need for your examination.
Start for your exams a bit earlier and after entering the exam hall take a long breath. It will help you to control your nerves. Don’t talk with your friends about your preparation too much before the exams and also no need to share about your answer paper after the examination. Always try to think about your present, not the future. If you can start all these practices, you will able to reduce your exam phobia.
Nothing is impossible and exams are far from it. It becomes impossible or problematic when we fail to identify the root of our problems. Before falling prey to this phobia, try to find the root of your problems. A solution is always there.
