- By Ridam Sharma
- Fri, 20 Feb 2026 10:00 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
With the ongoing CBSE board exams, it becomes more important than ever for students to stay focused. The overwhelming exam days can ruin year-long preparations. Racing heart, sweaty palms are normal during the exam season, but this nervousness can also have the ability to make your mind go blank under pressure, even if you have prepared well.
The key is to learn to manage exam stress and to stay optimistic, and with the right approach, you can stay focused and confident during your exam. Therefore, here is a list of six tips to stay calm and composed during examinations, according to Ms Kruti Sharma, Corporate Trainer, Leadership Coach, POSH and AML Expert.
1. Start Your Day Right:
Wake up early so you are not rushing. Make sure to eat a light, healthy meal that gives you energy. Avoid too much caffeine as it may increase anxiety. Reach the exam centre on time to avoid last-minute panic.
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Exam-Day Tips To Stay Focused (Image Credit: Canva)
2. Take A Deep Breath:
If you feel nervous before or during the exam, pause for a moment. Take slow, deep breaths. Follow simple inhaling and practice of breath in for four seconds, hold and then breathe out for four seconds. Repeat this a few times. Deep breathing helps calm your mind and improve concentration.
3. Read Instructions Carefully:
When you get the question paper, read all instructions carefully and mark key points. Start with easy questions. This way your confidence boost, and then you can move ahead and solve the difficult ones.
Exam-Day Tips To Stay Focused (Image Credit: Canva)
4. Utilise The Time Wisely:
Divide exam time based on the marks. Don’t spend too much time on difficult questions. If you get stuck, move ahead and come back later when you have answered everything you know.
5. Stay Optimistic
Throw thoughts like ‘I can’t do this,’ ‘What if I fail?’ ‘What if I go blank? In the dust bin. Before the exam, keep reminding yourself that you have prepared well and you will do your best. Positive self-talk truly helps.
Exam-Day Tips (Image Credit: Canva)
6. Take Short Mental Breaks:
If your mind feels tired, pause for a few seconds. Close your eyes, or take a deep breath, and you will feel better. These tiny breaks refresh you and make you feel comfortable.
Each of the above-mentioned exam-day tips is backed by an expert and serves as a reminder that it is possible to perform well even under pressure when you trust yourself and stay focused. Do your best, and let your hard work speak for you.