Test tips: Strategies for excelling and mental preparation
The school and university exam period is one of the most critical times in the academic calendar, representing the culmination of months of hard work. In this context, Dr. Mohammed Bakr Saleh Qandieh, a consultant in family and community medicine, emphasized in an interview with Al-Youm newspaper that success at this pivotal stage depends not only on the amount of information a student memorizes, but is also closely linked to their psychological state and mental stability while approaching the exam paper.
The importance of the psychological dimension in academic achievement
Historically, tests were viewed solely as a measure of memorization, but modern educational and psychological studies have proven that the ability to manage stress is an integral part of the learning process. Dr. Qandeh explained that the psychological aspect plays a pivotal role; excessive anxiety raises stress levels, which can lead to what is known as "mental shutdown," preventing students from recalling information despite having studied it thoroughly. Therefore, psychological preparation, beginning with instilling self-confidence, is the first step toward excellence, along with the crucial need to reinforce the understanding that tests are a tool for assessment, not a threat.
Strategy for dealing with the test paper
Dr. Qandeh presented a practical strategy for students upon receiving the exam paper, emphasizing the importance of remaining calm and composed. He advised starting with the easier questions first; the scientific and psychological significance of this step lies in its ability to boost students' self-confidence, give them a sense of early accomplishment, and buy them extra time to tackle the more complex questions later with greater focus, free from time pressure.
Healthy lifestyle and the role of the family
Regarding daily practices, the consultant cautioned against the widespread phenomenon of staying up late during exam periods, emphasizing that adequate sleep is essential for consolidating information in long-term memory. He also stressed the importance of proper nutrition and time management, including regular rest breaks to refresh the mind. On a social level, he pointed out that the responsibility is shared, with families having a crucial role in providing a calm and supportive environment, avoiding discouraging comparisons, and refraining from exaggerating results to ensure their children navigate this stage successfully and with distinction.
