By Gaurav Sarma
Published Feb 17, 2025

Hindustan Times
Education

Photo credit: Unsplash

Stressed over exams? Here are 5 things you should NOT do at any cost!

Check a list of things that you should not be doing for sound mental health this exam season as per a QS Top Universities report. 

Don't ignore the cause of stress. A little exam stress is inevitable. If you are not prepared well for the examination, it is advised that you keep going on with the preparations, rather than simply being carefree.

Don't keep blaming yourself. While a little self-chivvying can be helpful to let you stay disciplined, too much negativity is likely to be demotivating, and sap your energy levels.

Don't set unrealistic targets. Understand that you are not a super-human! Don’t set goals that you will not be able to meet and eventually fail.

Don't cut out fun treats and study breaks. Focusing all your time and energy exclusively on the impending exam may seem reasonable. However, taking time out and doing the things you enjoy is also essential to give your brain time to rest and digest information.

Don't drink too much caffeine. While most think that coffee will give the extra boost for a head start and help them stay awake an extra hour or so, it won't do you much good in the long term. Instead, make sure you stick to a balanced diet, drink lots of water to keep your brain hydrated, and try to get plenty of sleep.

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