As exam season approaches, the pressure to revise can feel all-consuming. It’s tempting to think you need to spend every waking hour with your head in a book, but neglecting your mental health can actually hinder your performance. In fact, taking care of yourself is one of the smartest things you can do during this time. Let’s explore how you can balance effective revision with well-being and why making mental health a priority will help you ace your exams.
1. Breaks Are Essential – Not an Excuse
Ever felt your mind wandering halfway through a study session? That’s your brain telling you it needs a break. Research shows that regular breaks improve focus and retention, so stepping away from your desk isn’t slacking – it’s science!
One proven method is the Pomodoro Technique, where you revise for 25 minutes and then take a 5-minute break. After four cycles, you get a longer 15- to 30-minute break. During these short breaks, avoid screens and do something relaxing or refreshing, like stretching, grabbing a snack, or chatting with a friend.
Breaks don’t just help you stay productive – they also protect your mental health by reducing the feeling of being overwhelmed. You’re not a robot, and giving your brain time to recharge will help you work smarter, not harder.
2. Don’t Give Up on What You Love
Revision season doesn’t mean giving up on everything that makes you happy. In fact, keeping up with your favourite hobbies is essential for balance. Whether it’s playing football, painting, gaming, baking, or playing an instrument, doing the things you enjoy helps to lower stress and boosts your overall happiness.
Think of your hobbies as mental health fuel. They keep you going when the pressure of exams starts to build. Taking time to do something you love can refresh your mind and help you return to revision with more energy and focus.
3. Get Outside and Breathe
There’s a reason doctors recommend fresh air and sunlight for boosting your mood – it works! Even a 10-minute walk can do wonders for your mental health. If you can, try spending time in nature, whether that’s a local park, your garden, or even a quick stroll around the block.
Getting outside helps to clear your mind, reduce anxiety, and improve your concentration when you return to your desk. Plus, sunlight is a great source of vitamin D, which supports your immune system – something you’ll definitely want to keep strong during exam season.
4. Short, Focused Sessions Beat Marathon Revision
Have you ever sat down to revise for hours, only to find that nothing seems to stick? Long, unbroken revision sessions aren’t just exhausting – they’re also ineffective. Instead, aim for shorter, focused sessions with regular breaks.
Switching between subjects or types of activities (like reading, writing notes, and practising questions) keeps your brain engaged and reduces the chance of burnout. By working in shorter, high-quality bursts, you’ll retain more information and feel less drained at the end of the day.
5. Stay Connected
During revision season, it’s easy to become isolated – especially if you’re studying alone. But staying connected with friends, family, or classmates can help keep you grounded and supported. Whether it’s a quick chat with a parent, a study session with friends, or even an online message exchange, don’t underestimate the power of human connection to lift your spirits.
The Ultimate Revision Support – Join Our Masterclasses
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Here’s what you’ll get:
Weekly Tutorial Sessions: Expert guidance to keep you on track and make complex topics simple.
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Night-Before-the-Exam Sessions: Calm your nerves and revise strategically with our last-minute tips and tricks.
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With over 1,000 five-star reviews, thousands of students have discovered how to revise smarter, not harder. Signing up now gives you six months of access – enough to see you through to the final exam in June – and the tools to make this exam season your most successful yet.
Remember: Grades Don’t Define Your Worth
It’s important to remind yourself that grades are not the be-all and end-all of your life. Yes, exams are important, and putting effort into revision is essential. But your worth as a person is not tied to a letter or a number on a piece of paper.
Taking care of your mental health and maintaining balance during this challenging time will not only help you perform better but will also ensure you come out the other side feeling proud of how you handled the process.
What’s Your Favourite Way to Relax During Revision?
We’d love to hear from you – drop a comment below and let us know how you take a break during revision. And if you’re ready to make revision less stressful and more effective, click here to join our Masterclasses today. Let’s make exam season a success, together! 💛
