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Exams - Skills Guide

Coping with nerves

What is it?
It is perfectly normal for you to feel a little nervous and stressed about exams, in fact a small amount of stress is very helpful. However, being stressed to the point of making you ill and unable to perform is not good.

Why do I need to learn it?
Practicing stress relieving techniques can help with your exam performance and handling stress in your everyday life.

How do I do it?
As with all study skills there is no right or wrong way of doing things, however below are a few tips that you may find helpful:

  • Remember to breathe
  • Eat, sleep and exercise well
  • Set realistic goals
  • Don't go it alone
  • Believe in yourself
  • If you feel like you are struggling, talk to someone

There are support services available at the University of Derby to help if the strain of study is becoming a problem. If you would like to talk to someone contact The Student Wellbeing Service

For more detailed information, check out the video resources for coping with nerves. These can be found in the resources section.

Exam Tips - Nerves

Coping with Nerves Livestream