‘s &’ts

Notification for SBI PO Exam 2014 is released and exam is expected to be held in June. Candidates may have started with the application process and will soon start preparing for the exam. IBPS will also release the notification for the Probationary Officers Exam soon (by May / June). Though a bit early but we are listing down points which you can follow to prepare and score well for the exam.

(check the details on SBI PO Recruitment 2014)

Beat the Blues
Before the exam fever hits you, it’s essential to take control of the situation by adopting some of these tried and tested stress-busters. For many individuals, the word ‘exam’ brings out the ‘hardwired’ notion of stress and negativity. However, there are coping mechanisms that can help one understand and wade through the negative sentiments associated with it.

Just before any examination, stress can be debilitating enough to turn a few individuals into a nervous wreck. In fact, the irony is that even the best ones suffer from some form of stress-related physical symptoms, which include stomach cramps, absence of hunger and sleep, ‘blank’ mind, inability to understand and recall lessons learnt, to list a few.

Handling the Pre Exam Stress
However, it’s necessary to understand and differentiate between the positive and negative stress associated with a particular exam. Positive stress is something that propels us to move methodically in our preparations and remains goal-oriented. And it gets reduced as we achieve self-set targets (of subject and topics) within the stipulated time. It strengthens concentration. Such a stress, in fact, saves us from negative stress and protects us against diversions and distress.

Negative stress, on the other hand, causes a wavering mind. It diminishes the capacity to concentrate. An individual looks forward to seeking opinions of others and lose confidence closer to examinations. One of the best ways to avoid negative stress is to try and avoid any negative stress is to try and avoid any negative interaction.

First and foremost, feel confident about the preparation and the way the studies have been planned and revision. Essentially, don’t get bogged down just because some peers are doing things differently. Have faith in the abilities and try to analyse the preparation undertaken throughout the year by solving a number self tests, and mock exams. So, this is the time to accomplish last minute revisions confidently and carefully.

First of all, caste away all the worries and relax. Remember, the last minute revisions are meant to reassure you that you are fully prepared to face the examination. Ideally, start with easier topics and put a tick-mark against each topic after completion. Set aside a little extra time for the difficult and doubtful ones. However, if a particular topic is difficult to comprehend despite repeated efforts and help, it’s better to forget it and look for alternatives. Don’t let it mar the confidence level.

Ideally, try to strictly follow the time-table. Try to adhere to deadline assigned to each subject or topic. Except for clarifying a few doubts, avoid interacting unnecessary with friends and peers. Too much discussion of what is sure or expected to come in the question paper is only a waste of time and energy.

(check the details on Tips on how to prepare for PO Exam)

Do’s and Don’ts
• Take short breaks between study hours prolonged study hours without rest will deplete energy levels
• Take light meals at short intervals. Munch on fresh fruit and dry fruits as snacks. Soups and fresh vegetable and cheese sandwiches make for great meals.
• Try to have at least 4-5 hours of sound sleep.
• Don’t try to learn and write answers verbatim. Many students hold a wrong notion that mugging up and reproducing answers exactly word for word will fetch better marks.
• Try and understand the topic, divide it into points and then write it correctly in your own words.

Updated: April 11, 2014 — 1:04 pm

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