What should candidates do to manage exam day anxiety?

Practicing relaxation techniques is a highly effective strategy for managing exam day anxiety. These techniques can include deep breathing exercises, visualization, or mindfulness, which help calm the mind and body, reduce tension, and enhance focus. By engaging in relaxation practices before and during the exam, candidates can create a more positive mindset and better control their anxiety levels. This preparation can significantly improve their performance by allowing them to concentrate on the exam questions rather than their nerves.

In contrast, arriving at the exam venue without preparation may increase anxiety, as feeling unprepared can lead to worry and self-doubt. Reviewing notes extensively on the day of the exam can also exacerbate anxiety, as cramming last-minute information is not typically effective and can lead to confusion and more stress. Ignoring anxiety while concentrating solely on the questions is often not viable, as anxiety can interfere with cognitive functions. Acknowledging and managing anxiety through relaxation techniques provides a much healthier and more effective approach.