It’s that time of year again, the dreaded exam season (who decided exams would be right after the break?) Although you may have an urge to spend the whole of this week hunched over your laptop, I urge you to read this post and try and incorporate some of these tips into your study schedule. 

Spend Time on Your Own and Away from a Screen 

Whilst studying we spend so much time by ourselves that it can be easy to forget that spending time on your own doing something you enjoy is a key part of supporting your wellbeing and taking a well-deserved break. 

Each day, try to have a break by yourself doing something you enjoy, that doesn’t involve a screen. This could be listening to music or a podcast, reading a book, or even writing down some of your thoughts and feelings in a journal. It’s like venting to your friend but to a book instead and you can let your thoughts go as random as you like.  

Remember to Do One Fun Thing Everyday 

Studying for exams can become repetitive and tiring. It’s important that we give our brain a break by doing something fun and exciting occasionally. This will give you something to look forward to everyday and can also help fuel your studies. It might be treating yourself to a nice lunch, or going to that gallery that you’ve always wanted to see. 

Remember Your Friends 

Studying for exams and assessments can be so isolating. I mainly study at home (I can get so distracted with other people around…), and this means it can be really easy to not see anyone else for days on end. Even if I am getting myself out of the flat and doing things for myself that I enjoy, it is important to involve friends in some of those things. 

We as humans are naturally social creatures, and we need to see people! You could arrange a call with a friend in the evening, or meet up with someone on your lunch break and eat together.  

Although becoming comfortable with your own company is an important part of self-care, spending some time with friends can help to make you feel energised and relaxed. 

Be proactive in reaching out to your friends, including new ones. They may be completely frazzled and in need of a reminder to meet up with friends themselves! 

Make Sure to Separate Where You Study and Relax 

Living in close quarters can often mean you blend the places where you revise and rest. I’ve made this mistake countless times, but in reality what this does is make it increasingly difficult for you to switch off from studying when you want to rest or sleep, something that your brain needs to function and do well in your exams (but also for your own wellbeing!) 

Instead, where possible you should try and revise outside of your living space. This could be at the kitchen table, or at a local library. This helps you to escape when I walk into the private space of my bedroom, meaning you won’t feel guilty or be constantly reminded of studying. 

I hope these tips have been somewhat helpful for you, and best of luck over this period! 

Want to find out more about how you can take care of your Wellbeing? Visit the KCLSU Wellbeing Hub for activities, events and resources to help boost your wellbeing. Make sure you also keep an eye out for the KCLSU News Page, for lots of Wellbeing-related tips and tricks.