Dr. Kenefick’s top study tips for public examinations 

Exam season is fast approaching, and nerves are naturally beginning to ripple through the Berkhamsted community. While a little pressure can sharpen focus, it should never come at the cost of well-being or lead to overwhelm. That’s why School Psychologist Dr. Emily Kenefick has shared seven practical, uplifting tips to help pupils prepare with confidence, balance, and a positive mindset. 

1. Revise Smart 

Rome wasn’t built in a day: be realistic about what you can achieve and leave enough time to tackle tough topics.  

Keep your revision manageable by breaking subjects into smaller chunks with a clear plan. Make sure you’re taking brain breaks at least every hour.  

2. Manage Anxiety

Nerves are normal, and everyone gets that surge of adrenaline before an exam begins. What will set you apart is how you can cope with those nerves: will you control your mindset even when you’re feeling the pressure? 

Dr. Kenefick recommends challenging negative thoughts and instead focusing on what you can control. For example: 

Turn “I’ll fail” into “I’m prepared and will try my best today.” 

Turn “I can’t do this” into “I have successfully completed exams before, including countless class assessments.” 

3. Reduce Distraction 

We know, we know… Reels are much more fun than revising quadratic simultaneous equations. However, keeping your phone out of reach while revising may be key to keeping your focus and attention on task.  

Try to avoid social media overload over the course of a day, especially before bed, to give your brain a chance to rest and recuperate. 

Your phone will be waiting for you after exams, and you’ll have all summer to catch up! 

4. Look after yourself 

Eating well, staying hydrated and getting fresh air are all more important than you think. They’ll keep you healthy and help to regulate your nerves.  

Be sure to get enough sleep, with a consistent bedtime and wake-time: this will be crucial for your memory retention. Avoid all-nighters and naps, as while they may seem helpful, they can throw off your circadian rhythm and wreak havoc on exam days. 

5. You don’t have to do this alone! 

Behind every pupil stands a whole community of teachers, tutors, family and friends, all poised to help you succeed. Be sure to use your teachers: for Sixth Form, try studying in the Zaha Hadid over the holidays, where staff will supervise and be on hand to answer any questions you might have.  

You are always welcome to speak to our school counsellors or school psychologist- even for a one-off session.  

6. Come exam day… 

There is no doubt that sitting in an exam hall can be nerve-wracking. To keep yourself in the zone, be sure to focus on these tips: 

1. Read questions carefully. 
2. Start with what you know. 
3. Don’t look around or compare yourself to others in the hall. 
4. If you feel anxious: pause, breathe, reset.  

There are many breathing exercises designed to settle your mind; sipping water, taking a toilet break or a rest break if you have them will also help calm your body down. 

Try to avoid the inevitable post-exam debrief. Move on to the next subject, and don’t let yourself stress about things that you now cannot control. 

7. Keep Perspective 

Exams matter, but they don’t define your future. We know here at Berkhamsted that academics are only part of the bigger picture: your extra-curriculars, your personal growth and your character all contribute to the remarkable person you’re turning out to be.  

If you’ve done your best, you’re exactly where you need to be. 

Good luck to all pupils who are preparing for end of term examinations, and in particular, our GCSE and A Level pupils who are about to embark on their public examinations. We know you’ll do everyone proud.