Exam season can feel like a whirlwind—assignments piling up, revision plans growing longer, and deadlines creeping closer by the day. Whether you’re in school, college, or university, managing your time effectively during this intense period is essential not just for academic success, but also for protecting your well-being.
Here’s a guide to help you stay organised, focused, and calm during the chaos of exam season.
1. Get Everything Down on Paper (or Screen)
Start with a master plan. List out all your deadlines, including:
- Exam dates
- Assignment due dates
- Group project check-ins
- Personal commitments (work shifts, family events, etc.)
Use a calendar or planner app to map these out visually. This gives you a clear overview of what’s coming and prevents last-minute surprises.
2. Break Big Tasks into Smaller Steps
Large assignments and revision goals can feel overwhelming. Break them down into smaller, manageable chunks:
- Instead of “Study biology,” try “Review Chapter 3 notes” or “Practice five past paper questions.”
- Instead of “Finish essay,” try “Write introduction,” “Find three sources,” and “Edit paragraph one.”
This makes your progress easier to see—and ticking off small tasks feels way more motivating.
3. Prioritise Wisely
Not all tasks are created equal. Ask yourself:
- What’s due soonest?
- What carries the most weight in terms of grading?
- What’s taking up the most mental space?
Use the Eisenhower Matrix or just a simple high–medium–low priority system to tackle the most important tasks first.
4. Create a Flexible Daily Routine
Plan your days in blocks of time rather than rigid hour-by-hour schedules. Include time for:
- Study sessions (ideally 25–50 minutes with short breaks)
- Meals and movement
- Rest and self-care
- Buffer time in case things take longer than expected
5. Limit Distractions
Turn off notifications, use apps like Forest or Focus Keeper, and find a study space where you’re less likely to be interrupted. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s creating enough focus time to actually get things done.
6. Look After Your Mind and Body
Exams and deadlines can take a toll. Make sure you’re:
- Getting enough sleep
- Eating nourishing meals
- Moving your body (even a short walk helps)
- Taking regular breaks to avoid burnout
Your brain performs better when you treat your whole self with care.
Remember: it’s okay to take things one step at a time. You’ve got this. 
