Surviving exam season: tips from Dundee students

Exam season is upon us, bringing the pressure of balancing assignment deadlines and exams. Procrastination becomes a familiar temptation, especially during those final weeks.

I have asked some fellow students for their top tips to help you thrive during exam season.

How Dundee students survive exam season

Hannah, PhD candidate: “Make time for yourself by scheduling an hour or two each day for non-study activities. Whether its baking, going to the gym, or whatever it is you enjoy, these breaks are essential for staying balanced.”

Abbie, fourth year student, Psychology: “I like to prepare my meals in advance to save time and avoid cooking after a long day of studying. It’s important to stay well-nourished during busy exam periods!”

Matthew, fourth year student, Law: “I love using the Pomodoro Technique, I work for 25 minutes and take a 5-minute break, then repeat. It keeps my mind fresh and helps maintain my concentration”.

Recommended tools for success

Notion: I love using Notion to keep my notes organised, plan my study sessions, and track my progress. It’s so much fun setting up a fresh Notion template each academic year, and if starting from scratch feels overwhelming, there are lots of free templates online to get you started. It’s the perfect creative project to get you in the mood for a new semester.

Forest app: If you’re like me and guilty of the occasional TikTok doomscroll, staying off your phone can feel like a challenge. That’s where the Forest app comes in – it plants a little tree for the time you want to focus, but if you pick up your phone, the tree dies (and trust me, a dead tree is not a good look). It’s super motivating to grow the best-looking forest and earn coins to unlock all the cool trees!

Pomodoro Technique: Like Matthew, I find that working in short bursts using the Pomodoro Technique of 25 minutes of focus with a 5-minute break, really helps me stay on track. It’s helpful knowing that there is a break coming up so that I can check my phone or make a cup of tea without feeling guilty.

Remember, support is available

Exam stress can feel overwhelming, but it is important to remember that you don’t have to face it alone – help is available. The University of Dundee has resources in place to aid you.

Academic Skills Centre: offers a wide range of online resources covering everything from essay writing to revision techniques and time management. If you don’t find what you are looking for online, you can always book an appointment to chat to someone for extra help!

Counselling Service: the University also offers confidential counselling sessions, which provide a safe space for you to talk things through with a professional who is there to support you .

Don’t hesitate to reach out if you are struggling – there is a big community here that is ready to help and support you.

Good luck with your exams!