Ever wondered what to do if an exam goes wrong?
We’ve all been there, coming out of a tricky exam, and left replaying it in your head, wondering if you could have changed an answer. We’ve all worried about what we could have done differently, or if we can hit a reset button.
We’ve prepared these tips for shaking off those “what if” moments and moving forward in a productive way. Whether it’s mock exams or the first of your A Level exams, these are practical tips to help for future exams. Our top advice includes being kind to yourself instead of comparing your journey to everyone else’s, and making sure you carve out time for stuff you actually enjoy. Plus, don’t be afraid to chat with people you trust and tweak your game plan for next time.
Don’t dwell on the mistakes
It’s really important to recognise that the exam is complete, and thinking over what you could have changed or answered won’t make a difference to the outcome that you get. It’s best to put together a plan as to how to move on and prepare for any upcoming papers you may have. Dwelling on mistakes can hinder performance in future exams, so be sure not to accept defeat, pick yourself up and get ready for the next papers.
Don’t compare answers
It may be tempting to discuss your answers with your peers, but this can further increase your anxieties if your answers differ greatly from those of your peers. Remember that they can make mistakes too, and sometimes you may be worrying about an answer you got right, but they didn’t. Be sure to stay in your lane, remember that your answers affect only you, and do not compare yourself with others.
Take some time for yourself
It’s really important in times of stress and anxiety to look after both your mental and physical health. The two go hand-in-hand with each other, so taking some time to be mindful after an exam and doing some exercise will help to level your head so you can begin to plan ahead for any upcoming exams you are sitting.
Seek advice from teachers
Your teachers are always on hand to help if you have any questions about your exams, and they will be happy to provide advice on any upcoming papers. Be sure not to steer the conversation towards the mistakes you may have made, but how you can use these to your advantage to adapt your learning and revision to achieve the best outcome you can.
Adapt your study plan
Perhaps you didn’t analyse or evaluate your essay to your satisfaction in the exam, or maybe you need to go back over content from a longer time ago. Be sure to take stock of your internal feedback to adapt your study plan. Acknowledging where you can improve and making a plan to use it for your own benefit is the best way forward and will help you in your upcoming papers.
Study Dog can help
From understanding content to guiding you through the structure of the exams, our learning platform is here to help you navigate the exam process as smoothly as possible. Our team is also on hand to help you through the difficult stages of the exam season, so get in touch with us if you need any additional help or support.
